Letter: Energy security and our national security

The new administration recently signed memorandums to expedite the construction of critical infrastructure projects. In fact, recently the administration approved the new Keystone XL permit. This order signals the administration's commitment to the all of the above energy strategy we desperately need.

A dynamic economy depends on affordable energy to get where we need to be, heat our homes, and run our businesses. These energy infrastructure projects are the backbone of our energy delivery system, and crucial to our nation's economic and security interests.

Additionally, as natural gas prices continue to remain low, more Americans are getting their electricity and heating demands met by this cleaner burning energy source. More investment in our nation's natural gas infrastructure is equally important to an effective overall strategy.

When it comes to national security, enhancing our energy infrastructure reduces our dependence on imported energy, especially from Venezuela and the Middle East. In fact, Russia just surpassed Saudi Arabia in oil production. With global competition increasing, we need to make the smart investments now to keep up. I was able to see this first hand during my time serving overseas. Whoever controls the energy holds the key to economic prosperity, and safety. These recent developments in our energy sector are very encouraging.

Rick LaMere

Anamosa