Trump vows to overturn Biden's offshore drilling ban
President-elect Donald Trump said he will reverse President Biden’s ban on offshore oil and gas drilling along much of the U.S. coastline as soon as he takes office, though the move could require congressional approval.
Robin Bravender reports for POLITICO.
In short:
- Trump criticized Biden’s decision to block new offshore oil and gas leasing across 625 million acres, calling it a last-minute obstacle to his administration’s energy plans.
- The Biden ban covers the Atlantic, Pacific, eastern Gulf of Mexico and parts of Alaska's Bering Sea, aiming to limit fossil fuel risks and bolster conservation efforts.
- Republicans and energy groups pledged to fight the ban, while environmental advocates hailed it as a key step for climate protection.
Key quote:
“It’s ridiculous. I’ll unban it immediately. It’ll be changed on Day One. I can change it immediately.”
— Donald Trump
Why this matters:
Offshore drilling policies impact U.S. energy production, environmental preservation and coastal economies. Political battles over such measures may shape future climate and energy policies, affecting the nation’s energy independence and global commitments to reduce fossil fuel use.
Read more: Biden blocks offshore drilling to safeguard U.S. coasts before leadership change
