Hank Gilbert On Obama's Energy Policy

A few day's ago, President Obama introduced his new energy policy, which included both new drilling and a push to develop new affordable biofuels. Texas Agriculture Commissioner candidate Hank Gilbert (Democrat) issued the following statement regarding the policy. In it, he puts forth his views and the failings of his opponent (the incumbent). Here is his statement:

Although President Obama's plan to expand offshore drilling is garnering most of the attention, the real meat of the plan is in the renewed push to develop biofuels to supply America with a dependable and secure source of energy for transportation and related uses.

The development and production of more biofuels is an achievable goal and one which can be attained without negatively impacting food prices, or through the use of massive government subsidies.

As early as 2006, I proposed policies which would have, by now, provided a steady, secure, and reliable supply of biofuel feedstocks while allowing Texas farmers to dramatically increase their incomes.

My opponent, incumbent Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples, has only recently taken any action related to creating a sustainable, secure biofuel industry in Texas-in spite of making this a hallmark of his campaign for this office in 2006. Further, my opponent only took such action after it was mandated by the Texas Legislature. In the interim, Texas lost out on major opportunities to become a national leader in biofuel production.

As Agriculture Commissioner, I will do more to insure that Texas does its part in helping our nation make the transition from non-renewable fuels to biofuels. Sugarcane, casava, and other crops Texas can produce ethanol and other biofuels affordably, providing a market driven counterbalance to already increasing gasoline prices.

Texas can become a national leader in the production of a sustainable, secure energy future for America. The farmers of this state can literally grow the fuel America needs.