Energy & Environment

Policy Priorities

U.S. energy independence
A secure and resilient U.S. energy sector
A predictable and efficient permitting process
A level playing field for all sources of energy to compete
Increased energy exports and international energy dominance
Realistic, fact-based, and economically viable solutions for complex environmental problems
Energy policies that help America’s most vulnerable and end energy poverty—ensuring that every American has access to affordable, reliable energy

American ingenuity and entrepreneurialism have transformed American energy. When our Nation thrived under America First leadership, the United States achieved a generational strategic goal and moved from a position of chronic energy dependency to true energy independence—providing abundant and affordable energy to American homes and communities and opening new vistas of American dreams and opportunities. Our American energy sector achieved something else as well: in attaining new heights of innovation and development, the United States led the world in generating opportunity, security, and environmental progress. The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) will advance policies to safeguard the freedoms and opportunities presented by our energy potential and rebuild our Nation’s energy independence while advancing clean air and clean water and helping make the greatest economy in the world work for all Americans.

Team

Ambassador Carla Sands

Chair, Foreign Policy Initiative & Senior Fellow for Energy Policy

Oliver McPherson-Smith,Ph.D

Vice Chair, Energy & Environment

Jason Hayes

Director, Energy and Environment

Ted Ellis

Campaign Director, Power America and Deputy Director, Energy and Environment

David Vasquez

Senior Policy Analyst, American Prosperity and Energy & Environment

Samuel Buchan

Senior Fellow, Energy & Environment

Joshua Antonini

Policy Analyst, Energy and Environment

Latest

Commentary | March 5, 2026

Congressman Pete Stauber on Critical Minerals, American Mining, and the Path to Energy Security

The America First Policy Institute hosted a conversation with Congressman Pete Stauber of Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District to discuss the future of domestic mining, critical minerals, and economic growth for working Americans.

Statement | March 5, 2026

AFPI Responds to the Ratepayer Protection Pledge

Commentary | March 4, 2026

Nuclear Energy Benefits American Families

Nuclear power plants can help Americans secure their corner of the American dream. Homer Simpson is a fictional character, but the kind of paycheck his plant job represents is very real: a steady, nuclear industry salary can buy a home, support a family, and keep the lights on in Springfield and across America.

Statement | March 4, 2026