A Dangerous Setback: Why the LNG Pause Harms American Energy Security

The recent ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to halt Texas LNG export projects is a concerning development for American energy security and economic stability. This decision, driven by a deeply flawed environmental study and influenced by activist agendas, undermines our ability to provide affordable, reliable energy to American families and small businesses.

Let’s break it down: The administration’s pause on LNG export permits isn’t just a bureaucratic delay—it’s a decision that directly impacts the wallets of everyday Americans. Since early 2021, we've witnessed rising energy costs that ripple through the economy, driving up prices on everything from groceries to household goods. When energy prices go up, the cost of living follows, hitting hardest those who can least afford it.

The environmental study used to justify this pause is riddled with errors and has been widely discredited. The study fails to account for the reality that U.S. LNG is one of the cleanest and most efficient energy sources available today. By halting these projects, we risk increasing global emissions rather than reducing them. Natural gas, especially LNG, has played a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions by displacing dirtier fuels like coal and oil. The study’s conclusions are not just wrong—they are dangerous to our environment and our economy.

What’s more, by stalling U.S. LNG exports, we are ceding ground to nations like Russia, which are more than willing to step in and fill the gap. This isn’t just about losing market share—it’s about losing our leadership role in the global energy market. It’s a geopolitical misstep that puts our allies at risk, especially at a time when energy security is more critical than ever.

This ruling also sends a chilling message to the industry: that no matter how much progress we make in delivering cleaner, more efficient energy, political agendas can still derail our efforts. The LNG projects affected by this ruling would have supported thousands of American jobs, driven billions in economic activity, and helped secure a cleaner energy future for us all.

It’s time to move past the distractions and focus on solutions that work. Let’s ensure that our energy policies are based on sound science, not flawed studies. Let’s protect American jobs, safeguard our energy future, and continue to lead the world in responsible energy development.