Energy Security: A Strategic Imperative in Uncertain Times

Energy Security is National Security

Today we live in a world defined by economic uncertainty, the United States must prioritize energy security as a central pillar of its national strategy. The recent wave of global tariffs and supply chain disruptions has exposed a stark reality: our continued dependence on foreign energy sources—many of which originate in nations that are unaligned or outright hostile to American interests—poses a fundamental risk to our economic and national security.

Energy is not just a commodity; it is the foundation of modern civilization. It powers our homes, fuels our industries, and underpins our defense capabilities. When access to affordable, reliable energy is threatened, everything from household budgets to strategic military operations are at risk.

As someone who owned and operated an oilfield supply company for over a decade, I lived through the oil crash a decade ago in Houston. That downturn was more than just a market correction—it was a gut punch to an entire region. I saw firsthand how global price shocks can ripple through local economies, turning boomtowns into ghost towns. It was a vivid reminder that energy markets are volatile, and when our domestic energy foundation isn’t resilient, communities pay the price.

The current landscape demands a commitment toward a diversified and stable domestic energy portfolio. An “All-of-the-Above” strategy—embracing hydrocarbons, renewables, nuclear, storage, and emerging technologies—is not only pragmatic, it’s essential. Each resource strengthens our national resilience and builds flexibility into our energy system, reducing exposure to global instability.

Boosting domestic production and infrastructure does more than just lower prices for American families. It enhances our geopolitical leverage. The ability to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other energy resources enables the U.S. to support allies and counter adversarial influence—especially in energy-dependent regions like Europe and Asia. When America leads in energy, we lead from strength.

Tariffs and trade disruptions have also revealed the vulnerability of global energy supply chains. We must continue to invest in building domestic capacity—not only in oil and gas, but in clean energy manufacturing, batteries, and grid technology. Competing with China in this space is not just about economics; it’s about national security and American prosperity.

Energy security also presents a rare opportunity for national unity. It’s not a red or blue issue—it’s an American issue. Every community, rural or urban, benefits from stable energy prices, high-paying jobs, and robust infrastructure. We need policy frameworks that reduce red tape, accelerate innovation, and incentivize domestic investment across the board—not policies shaped by ideological extremes.

If we’ve learned anything from the past decade, it’s that energy independence must be earned, not assumed. Our adversaries are already using energy as leverage. It’s time we use energy as a shield—protecting our economy, our communities, and our future.