Tiana Lowe Doescher Advocates for Domestic Energy Production at CPAC, Linking It to National Security
Tiana Lowe Doescher Critiques U.S. Energy Policy at CPAC, Advocates for Domestic Production
Grapevine, Texas — At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday, Washington Examiner economics columnist Tiana Lowe Doescher delivered a pointed critique of U.S. energy policy, calling for a renewed focus on domestic oil and gas production as a cornerstone of national security.
During a panel discussion on the second day of the conference, Doescher likened the current state of U.S. foreign policy to a complex game of chess, suggesting that strategic energy production could bolster America’s global influence. “I’ve almost thought about the president’s foreign policy as this giant chess game. It is kind of 4D chess,” she remarked, emphasizing the intricate connections between energy independence and geopolitical stability.
Joined by industry experts including Mark Wallace, CEO of United Against Nuclear Iran; John Vonglis, executive director of Nano Nuclear Energy; and Karen Herbst, partner at Providence Energy, Doescher argued that the path to lower energy costs and enhanced global standing lies in ramping up domestic energy production rather than adhering to climate-driven restrictions.
“It’s back to drill, baby, drill,” Herbst declared, contrasting the current administration’s approach to energy with that of former President Joe Biden. She noted that the current regulatory environment makes it easier to obtain permits and navigate government processes.
The panelists engaged in a robust discussion about the future of energy in the U.S., with Doescher questioning whether the country would pivot toward renewables or nuclear energy. Vonglis cautioned against the notion that a swift transition from fossil fuels to green energy is feasible. “It was a bit naive to think you could flip a switch and go from fossil fuels to go totally green,” he said, advocating for a balanced approach that includes nuclear energy.
Vonglis also highlighted the importance of demystifying nuclear energy, arguing that its benefits far outweigh any perceived risks. “The benefits far outweigh any kind of perceived detriment for nuclear,” he stated, calling for greater public understanding of the technology.
As the discussion turned to the challenges facing the energy sector, Doescher posed a critical question: “How much should we see the present moment of energy as an opportunity, and what are the biggest obstacles that Trump faces, and how will he help make sure that bottom line of affordability, the American voters feel it?”
Wallace underscored the urgency of reducing dependence on foreign sources for critical minerals, particularly in light of rising tensions with China. “We can no longer be dependent on China to ensure our national security on these critical minerals, and President Trump is changing that,” he asserted.
In closing, Vonglis encapsulated the panel’s sentiment: “Energy security equals national security. We take everything for granted from waking up to flipping your cup of coffee, to driving off, taking the railroad to work. So we have to ensure, I think, an assured domestic source of energy supply.”
As the conference continues, the call for a robust domestic energy strategy resonates with many attendees, reflecting a growing concern over energy independence and national security in an increasingly complex global landscape.