North Carolinians rely on dependable sources of energy in nearly every aspect of our lives. But all too often, families struggle with high gas prices and electricity bills because the government stands in the way of domestic energy exploration and production.

I believe that a balanced and responsible approach is the future of energy. This requires developing more of America's own energy resources, including wind, solar, clean coal, hydropower, biofuels, nuclear energy, as well as oil and natural gas, to reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil and create thousands of jobs here at home. The stringent regulations on our own untapped energy reserves artificially holds back the available supply and only increases the global demand for energy – as well as prices for you and your family. I will continue the fight to protect this vitally important industry and the hardworking Americans who support it.

As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I have:

• Introduced legislation to promote education for manufacturing and energy jobs
• Sponsored legislation to increase domestic oil and gas production and protect the Strategic Petroleum Reserve from misuse
• Led efforts opposing Russia’s Nord Stream II pipeline

As co-Chairman of the Atlantic Offshore Energy Caucus, I also recognize the potential energy resources that exist off our own coast. However, government regulatory hurdles prohibit the retrieval of this energy, which would lower energy costs, boost our economy, and create jobs. I believe that by adopting a market-led approach, we can create a more abundant, affordable, and sustainable energy supply that will unlock the potential for a more prosperous America.