GOP Address: Rep. James Lankford Says American Energy Is 'Better Way'

U.S. House of Representatives(WASHINGTON) -- In this week's Republican address, Rep. James Lankford, R-Okla., focused on what has perhaps been at the forefront of the minds of many Americans -- the rising price of gas.

Congressman Lankford says the rising cost of energy is costing jobs and hurting the economy.  He adds that the soaring costs of energy "make everything made in the USA more expensive and send more good-paying jobs overseas."  This is largely, he says, because of the high cost of energy driving shipping and manufacturing costs up.

Lankford criticizes President Obama's handling of the growing problem as well as his call to cut subsidies for big oil companies.

"Americans are looking for leadership to tackle the rising gas prices, but President Obama has only offered a tax increase on energy and the prospect of reduced supply," he said in the address.

Lankford adds that the President "may think he is punishing CEOs of big oil companies, but his plan will hurt the everyday consumer of energy…"

But the Oklahoma congressman offered what he says is a "better way." 

"Republicans are focused on expanding all American energy production to help lower costs, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and create millions of American jobs."

This focus on American energy resources is part of a legislative measure the GOP calls the American Energy Initiative.  Lankford says the initiative will aim to increase American energy supply, lower costs and allow the private sector to encourage job creation.

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