Shreveport Reporter

WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson strongly criticized the Biden Administration's decision to pause pending natural gas export terminals, stating that it is not only detrimental to America's economic growth but also empowers adversaries like Vladimir Putin.

In a statement, Speaker Johnson expressed his concern, saying, "This announcement by President Biden is as outrageous as it is subversive. Stalling LNG export terminals, like Calcasieu Pass 2 in Louisiana, not only prevents America's economic growth, it empowers our adversaries like Vladimir Putin."

Speaker Johnson highlighted the importance of American petroleum producers increasing LNG shipments to Europe in order to prevent a catastrophic energy crisis and provide an alternative to Russian energy exports in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He criticized the Biden Administration for asking American taxpayers to spend billions to counter Russia while knowingly forcing allies to rely on Russian energy, giving Putin an advantage.

"This policy change also flies in the face of the commitments made when the White House announced the joint US-EU Task Force less than two years ago to reduce Europe's dependence on Russia and strengthen energy security," Speaker Johnson added.

The decision by the Biden Administration to pause natural gas exports has raised concerns about the potential consequences for both America's economy and national security. Critics argue that it undermines efforts to reduce Europe's dependence on Russian energy and strengthens Putin's grip on the region.

Industry experts have also expressed their dismay at the decision, highlighting the negative impact it will have on job creation and economic development. The pause on natural gas export terminals like Calcasieu Pass 2 in Louisiana threatens to hinder America's energy sector and limit its ability to compete globally.

As the debate around the Biden Administration's decision continues, Speaker Johnson's statement serves as a strong rebuke, highlighting the potential consequences of pausing natural gas exports and the impact it could have on America's standing in the world.

The Biden Administration's decision to pause natural gas exports and its potential implications will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized in the coming days and weeks. The question of how to balance America's economic interests with its national security concerns remains at the forefront of the discussion.