In a bold move to secure support from top U.S. oil executives, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has promised to reverse numerous environmental rules and policies put in place by the Biden administration. According to the Washington Post, Trump made these pledges during a meeting with industry leaders in Florida, where he also requested a staggering $1 billion in campaign contributions.
Among the actions Trump vowed to take were ending President Biden’s emissions rules promoting electric vehicles and lifting the freeze on permits for new liquefied natural gas exports. The CEOs of major companies such as Venture Global, Cheniere Energy, Chevron, Continental Resources, Exxon, and Occidental Petroleum were reportedly in attendance at the meeting.
While representatives for Trump’s campaign did not provide a comment on the matter, Exxon stated they had no details to share, and other companies did not respond to requests for comment. Trump, who is gearing up for a rematch with Biden in the upcoming presidential election, has been vocal about his plans to roll back environmental regulations implemented by the current administration.
During the meeting, Trump also mentioned his intentions to increase oil drilling leases in the Gulf of Mexico, reverse drilling restrictions in the Alaskan Arctic, and express his disdain for wind power. These promises align with his campaign’s focus on supporting the oil and gas industry, despite growing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability. As the election draws near, Trump’s stance on environmental issues is sure to be a key point of contention between him and his Democratic opponent.