Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak from North Dakota recently visited Midland, Texas, where she was joined by fellow House Energy and Commerce Committee member August Pfluger and EPA Regional Administrator Scott Mason. During her visit, she participated in an oil and gas site tour and took part in discussions with Permian Basin energy producers, local leaders, and EPA officials.

At a subsequent press conference, they addressed efforts by the Trump administration and House Republicans to reduce regulations they believe are hindering energy production in North Dakota and Texas. Fedorchak underscored the importance of the Permian Basin to national energy security: "The Permian Basin is key to America’s energy security, and visiting the region with Rep. Pfluger offered a valuable up-close perspective on the shared challenges our energy producers face."

Rep. Pfluger emphasized energy’s centrality to national security, noting, "American energy dominance must be at the center of our national security strategy." He praised Midland as a vital city in addressing national challenges and reaffirmed support for President Trump’s energy policies.

EPA Regional Administrator Scott Mason shared feedback from energy companies about the need for practical regulations, saying, “I heard over and over from energy companies of all sizes that they want common-sense regulations for emissions and wastewater.” Mason expressed commitment to enhancing clarity in regulations and commended Pfluger’s input on these matters.

In the news conference at the Arrington Building on West Wall Street, Fedorchak praised Pfluger as “a true leader in Congress and a great mentor on these issues." She also highlighted innovation in methane capture used by Diamondback Energy and drew parallels with practices in North Dakota.

The visit emphasized the strategic importance of the Permian Basin in the discussion on American energy policy.