Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana said on Mar. 23 that the state’s energy producers are crucial for the United States to protect its national security interests, according to an op-ed published in Center Square and Shreveport-Bossier’s BIZ Magazine.
Kennedy argued that domestic energy production allows the U.S. to act independently on global issues, including threats from Iran, without relying on foreign oil or gas. He said this independence strengthens America’s ability to defend itself and support allies abroad.
“President Donald Trump did not start a war with Iran. He is trying to stop a war by Iran. Our intelligence showed that Iran had renewed its nuclear weapons program. Our intelligence also showed that Iran had begun manufacturing hundreds of missiles and drones a month so that Iran could threaten to destroy the entire Middle East if we ever attacked it again to stop its development of a nuclear warhead. The Trump administration had no choice but to do what we did,” Kennedy wrote.
He continued, “One of the reasons the president was able to attack first in order to protect America’s security and interests is because we are no longer dependent on Iran or any other nation for energy. In fact, we can produce enough oil and gas to satisfy America’s energy needs and have some left over to sell to our friends in Europe, for instance.” Kennedy noted Louisiana’s growing role as an exporter: “Just 10 years ago, Louisiana sent its first cargo export of liquified natural gas (LNG) overseas to our allies. In the decade since, Louisiana energy producers have ramped up LNG shipments to nearly 15 billion cubic feet per day. That’s enough LNG to power 15 London-sized cities every day.”
Kennedy has served as executive editor of the Virginia Law Review and president of his senior class at Vanderbilt University according to his official website. He earned degrees including magna cum laude honors from Vanderbilt University, a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law, and first class honors from Oxford University according to his official website. He holds top Republican positions on subcommittees related to energy and water development as well as economic policy according to his official website.
In addition, Kennedy serves on Senate committees covering appropriations, banking, budget, and judiciary matters according to his official website. He has contributed books and articles about Constitutional law and product liability in Louisiana according to his official website, while also contributing as an adjunct professor and substitute teacher according to his official website.
Kennedy concluded by highlighting Louisiana’s international reputation: “The world has long known that it can count on Louisiana to be the most interesting state in America. But many world leaders now understand that they can count on Louisiana… The world’s premier energy supplier.”
Looking ahead, Kennedy continues focusing on policies benefiting constituents through both legislative work and public commentary as reported by his office.
