Amidst the sprawling oil fields of Texas, Gov. Ron DeSantis is gearing up to unveil a comprehensive energy policy on Sept. 20, which is predicted to be in stark contrast to President Joe Biden's green agenda. This announcement is expected to underline DeSantis' commitment to domestic energy production and provide a counterpoint to Biden's efforts in transitioning toward renewable energy sources.
The speech is scheduled to take place at an oil rig, Energy Portal reported.
DeSantis' energy policy address is strategically timed, aligning with the upcoming Republican presidential race, just four months away from the Iowa caucus. DeSantis is emphasizing early-voting states to regain momentum after a decline in campaign funds and poll numbers. Although trailing former President Donald Trump in national polls, DeSantis remains competitive in early-voting states such as Iowa, according to recent polling.
DeSantis is set to visit multiple cities in Texas, including Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Tyler and Waco, organizing six distinct events during his tour. The focus of these engagements will encompass discussions on oil and gas policies alongside his proposed strategies for the U.S.-Mexico border.
DeSantis' upcoming speech will focus on restoring U.S. energy dominance, preserving the American automobile industry and reforming environmental permitting.
In June, DeSantis conducted a series of fundraisers in Texas and held his first official campaign event in the state, visiting the Texas border with Rep. Chip Roy, the Houston Chronicle reported. The fundraising efforts during that month yielded nearly $1 million in contributions. A report by the Texas Tribune in July indicated that since joining the presidential race, DeSantis has exceeded Trump in fundraising within Texas.
Although DeSantis has surpassed Trump in fundraising within Texas, Trump maintains a significant lead as the front-runner in the race. National public polling consistently shows Trump with a comfortable lead. In a recent Quinnipiac University poll of 727 Republican voters, Trump was the preferred choice for 54%, while DeSantis garnered support from 25%. Following closely were Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence, both tied at 4% each.
The Permian Basin, spanning across western Texas and eastern New Mexico, is the leading hydrocarbon production region in the United States, contributing around 30% of the nation's crude oil production and 14% of its natural gas production, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.