Energy Security
We live in an increasingly complex world in which increased reliance on foreign energy sources is a threat to our energy security — and national security.
In 2010, the United States spent $72 billion more on imported oil than we did in 2009, according to the Institute for Energy Research. That means we’re relying more and more on energy from foreign partners — many of whom don’t share America’s national interests.
Energy Security
Increased reliance on these foreign sources of oil means that global crises lead to less reliability and more supply disruptions. These disruptions lead to rising energy prices.
Rising energy prices don’t just mean more pain at the gas pump — they also mean that American employers are spending less money on investing in new jobs. Consumers also have less money in their wallets to spend on American-made goods and services.
More domestic energy production will lead to greater energy independence, which is the key to fueling Virginia and American jobs, growth and prosperity.
National Security
Currently, much of our energy is imported from countries whose interests run counter to America’s. Economic and military crises in these countries is a direct threat to our economic interests, our national security, and our way of life.
As such, increased reliance on these foreign energy sources poses increased risk for the men and women of our Armed Forces — many of whom are based right here in Virginia.
