WASHINGTON D.C. - Today, the fiscally conservative Democratic Blue Dog Coalition recognized Oklahoma Representative Dan Boren for his efforts to promote responsible and equitable tax policies that encourage domestic energy production and lower energy costs for consumers by naming him “Blue Dog of the Week.” Recently, Rep. Boren joined with his Blue Dog colleagues to launch a set of energy principles which seek to prevent increases in energy costs for America’s hardworking families and small businesses.
“As a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition, Rep. Dan Boren understands the importance of prioritizing taxpayer dollars in a way that is fiscally responsible, so that American families are provided with affordable energy alternatives,” said Rep. Mike Ross (D-AR), Blue Dog Co-Chair for Communications. “We will continue to work with Rep. Boren as he promotes stable and cost-effective production and energy efficiency.”
“Sound energy policy should recognize that energy demands for families and businesses are growing at a rapid rate, while our supply stagnates. Coming from a poor district, the cost of energy in eastern Oklahoma is a major priority,” Boren said. “If the most important goals are the reduction of foreign energy dependence and the burden of rising energy costs, it stands to reason that impeding exploration and the domestic supply of energy is a non-productive practice that creates a huge fiscal pinch for consumers.”
The Blue Dog energy principles are based on the idea that U.S. energy policy should not reduce existing access to domestic energy resources. During the past three decades, the United States’ use of energy has increased dramatically, as has our dependence on foreign sources of energy. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), world daily oil consumption is projected to grow by 1.4 million bbls in 2007 and by 1.6 million bbls in 2008. In addition, EIA projects a steady increase in natural gas and electric use in the United States, which will create upward pressures on prices. The Blue Dog energy principles promote rate stability and access to affordable energy sources, which are key priorities of Rep. Boren and the Blue Dog Coalition.
The fiscally conservative Democratic Blue Dog Coalition was formed in 1995 with the goal of representing the center of the House of Representatives and appealing to the mainstream values of the American public. The Blue Dogs are dedicated to a core set of beliefs that transcend partisan politics, including a deep commitment to the financial stability and national security of the United States. Currently there are 47 members of the Blue Dog Coalition.
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