Republicans look to woo Dems on permitting deal

By Kelsey Brugger | 10/21/2025 06:22 AM EDT

Two key GOP lawmakers discussed the prospects for compromise during an American Petroleum Institute event.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito and Rep. Bruce Westerman speaking.

Senate Environment and Public Works Chair Shelley Moore Capito (center) speaking about permitting with House Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman (right) during an American Petroleum Institute event with Williams Cos. Executive Chair Alan Armstrong on Monday. @EPWGOP/X

A top Senate Republican declared Monday she wants to attract numerous Democrats to a bipartisan permitting deal.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Environment and Public Works Committee, acknowledged the challenges in overcoming the chamber’s typical 60-vote threshold.

Not only are many Democrats skeptical of easing environmental rules, but some GOP lawmakers may also shy away from a bipartisan accord.

“So that doesn’t mean seven Democrats,” she said about the number of senators the legislation would need. “That means 15, 20 Democrats.”

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