Oregon Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley is releasing a trio of bills Tuesday he says would address energy affordability by promoting renewables and restricting natural gas exports.
The push from Merkley, ranking member of the Budget Committee and a vocal climate change hawk, comes as Democrats across the country are embracing affordability politics, slamming Trump for prioritizing fossil fuels and positioning themselves as the party embracing clean energy as the best, most immediate solution to rising power demand.
By seeking to limit natural gas exports, Merkey’s approach takes a more aggressive stance against fossil fuel development compared to other Democrats who are looking to embrace an “all-of-the-above” approach.
“My bills take on the energy affordability crisis by standing up to Trump’s reckless energy policies, supporting affordable clean energy for families nationwide, and helping lower energy costs for everyday Americans,” Merkley said in a statement.
