On this Memorial Day, we are excited to share a Special Edition with Representative John Curtis (R-UT). Rep. Curtis has been serving in Congress for four terms, beginning in 2017, and is currently running for the U.S. Senate. He serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee including as Vice-Chair of the Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee. Additionally, he serves as Vice Chair of the Federal Lands Subcommittee and member of the Energy & Mineral Resources Subcommittee on the Natural Resources Committee. He also founded and leads the Conservative Climate Caucus. Prior to his tenure in Congress, Rep. Curtis served as the Mayor of Provo. Leslie Beyer, Veriten Senior Advisor, was kind enough to connect us with Rep. Curtis and Mike, Todd and I were honored to host him in our offices in Houston.
 
Rep. Curtis first shares the inspiration for creating the Conservative Climate Caucus and its role to support solutions that reduce emissions without drastic economic costs. We discuss the importance of distinguishing between climate and climate extremism, Rep. Curtis’s approach to addressing climate issues within the context of energy independence and economic stability, and the importance of avoiding divisive rhetoric and focusing on practical, bipartisan solutions. Rep. Curtis shares his perspective on learning from European energy policies to avoid energy dependence on adversaries, the potential of geothermal energy advancements driven by fracking technology, and the role of the US as a leader in energy technology and the global impact of its energy policies. We discuss distinguishing between reducing emissions versus eliminating fossil fuels, rising power costs and their impact on businesses and families, the need for better education on the realities of different energy sources, addressing climate and environmental concerns within the context of other critical national priorities, areas of bipartisan agreement, and his perspective on restoring the Republican brand and principles. We also highlight Utah’s blend of entrepreneurial spirit, fiscal responsibility, and environmental stewardship, the complex relationship between the US and China, and more.
 
We ended by asking Rep. Curtis for his vision and hopes for the political landscape in ten years. We greatly appreciate Rep. Curtis’s optimistic outlook for the future political leadership of the US as well as the hard work he is doing in Washington on behalf of the energy community and all Americans who want sensible, balanced approaches.  
 
We hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day as we all remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy.
 
COBT returns next week with a regularly scheduled episode on June 5th and a surprise Special Edition on June 6th. We are very excited about both!
 
Thanks to you all for your friendship and support!