America First: Energy Independence Is National Security

The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced a new plan to expand offshore oil and gas leasing along the California coast and in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. This move is part of a broader effort to strengthen America’s energy position at a time when global instability threatens supply chains and economic stability. While some critics have voiced concern, the proposal reflects a long-overdue commitment to domestic energy production—something that has been sidelined for too long.

Energy independence is not a political slogan. It is a foundational principle of national security. For years, the United States has relied on foreign sources for a significant portion of its energy needs. That dependence has left us vulnerable to price spikes, geopolitical manipulation, and supply disruptions during times of conflict. When global tensions rise, energy markets react—and American families pay the price at the pump and on their utility bills.

The new leasing plan is not about expanding pollution. It is about expanding responsibility. Modern offshore drilling operates under strict federal oversight, with advanced safety protocols and environmental safeguards. The technology used today is far more precise and efficient than in past decades. Spills are rare, and when they do occur, response systems are far more capable than before. The real danger isn’t drilling—it’s dependency.

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has dismissed the plan as politically impractical, calling it “dead on arrival.” Yet history shows that resistance to proven energy sources often comes from ideology, not experience. In the past, nuclear power and natural gas were similarly dismissed as outdated or dangerous. Today, they are vital parts of a balanced energy mix. The same logic applies to responsible offshore drilling.

The Gulf of Mexico has long been a backbone of American energy production. Thousands of jobs in fishing, engineering, and construction depend on a stable and growing offshore industry. Expanding access means more opportunities for workers, especially in rural communities where other industries are scarce. These are not just jobs; they are livelihoods. They are families supported. They are communities strengthened.

Critics often cite climate change as a reason to abandon fossil fuels entirely. But the truth is, no single source of energy can power a modern economy on its own. Solar and wind are important, but they are intermittent and require massive storage infrastructure. They cannot yet replace the consistent, high-output energy that oil and gas provide. Until that changes, we must rely on a diversified energy strategy—one that includes responsible fossil fuel development.

This proposal also supports innovation. When American companies invest in new drilling technologies, they develop cleaner, more efficient methods. These advancements don’t just reduce emissions—they create economic value. The U.S. is already a global leader in energy innovation, and this plan helps maintain that edge.

Energy independence is not just about oil. It’s about sovereignty. It’s about ensuring that our nation can stand firm in times of crisis without bowing to foreign interests. It’s about protecting our children from the consequences of energy shortages and inflation. It’s about honoring the hard work of American workers and the integrity of our free-market system.

The Interior Department’s plan is not about going backward. It is about moving forward—on American terms. It is about building a future where our energy is secure, our economy strong, and our nation free.

Let’s drill with care, regulate with purpose, and lead with confidence. America first means energy independence. And energy independence means strength.

Published: 11/21/2025