Key facts
- A growing fissure exists between GOP lawmakers and the fossil fuel industry.
A growing rift between Republican lawmakers and the fossil fuel industry over potential diesel export bans could reshape their long-standing relationship. Some analysts warn this could lead to future Republican regulation of fossil fuels.
The potential for a rift between the Republican party and the fossil fuel industry could alter the political landscape for energy policy and campaign finance, potentially leading to new regulations or shifts in industry support.
A growing rift between Republican lawmakers and the fossil fuel industry over potential diesel export bans could reshape their decades-long relationship, which has seen policy wins for drillers and significant political donations for Republicans. Some analysts warn this could pave the way for future Republican regulation of fossil fuels.
Historically, Republicans have largely supported the oil and gas sector, with most voting for legislation that included expanded federal oil and gas leasing and lower royalty rates for offshore drilling. The industry, in turn, has directed the vast majority of its campaign contributions to Republicans since the 1990 election cycle, according to OpenSecrets.
However, a growing contingent of Republicans has recently proposed measures to lower gas and diesel prices, despite industry warnings against such actions. Senate Republicans have indicated they are not overly concerned about disrupting oil markets or impacting oil company profits as President Donald Trump considers a potential 90-day diesel export ban.
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