Since the Arab oil embargo in the 1970s, the U.S. administration has aimed to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil. However, the United States still imports a significant amount of oil every day. The demand for energy production in Minnesota will continue to increase as the population grows. The increasing demand will cause the energy costs to increase, making the average Minnesotan pay more utility bills.

Austin belongs to Minnesota Congressional District 1. Since MN-1 is mostly a rural district, people rely on their cars to get around. Thus, dramatic increases in gas prices can have significant impact on our lives. Increase in fuel price also causes the price of the goods to go up in the markets because the shipping fee will rise.

The best way for the U.S. to combat the rising energy cost is to become energy independent so that it will not rely on other countries, including some of our enemies, to provide the energy Americans need. Being energy independent is also vital to our national security. Minnesotans need to have control of our energy in order to lower the gas price. Not relying on other nations to provide oil to us is not simply about keeping the gas price down. It is also about giving Minnesotans a chance to have a brighter future. More jobs and investments will be created as we take control of the future of our energy.

Minnesotans deserve to have a say in managing our energy resources. Let’s make sure your elected officials legislate bills that focus on achieving energy independence.

Shiyi Zhang