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
Latest
Commentary
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January 11, 2026
Energy Dominance: Lowering Costs Powering the Future
The number on the gas station sign says it all: $2.97 per gallon. For the first time in four years, that price will be a reality for the average American in 2026, according to GasBuddy’s report released Tuesday. This is the expected result of a clear shift in how our leaders approach energy: a return to American energy abundance.
Statement
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January 7, 2026
One Year Since California Palisades Disaster: State Government Mismanagement Continues
Today marks the one-year anniversary of the tragic Palisades fire in California, which destroyed 23,700 acres and damaged over 6,800 structures. The damage and pain have not ceased as America-last policies continue to harm those in the Golden State. Former CA Congressman Mike Garcia, Chairman of America First California, issued the following statement.
Op-Ed
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December 16, 2025
State Agency Overreach Harms Michigan’s Farms and Businesses
Michigan’s farmers and rural landowners are the backbone of the state’s economy and identity. They provide food, jobs, and a way of life that has helped define America’s heartland. At America First Policy Institute, we champion policies that put these producers first. But Michigan’s farmers argue that state agencies’ actions reveal a troubling pattern of flexing regulatory muscle rather than protecting the environment or supporting Michigan’s rural communities.
Bill Analysis
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December 15, 2025
SPEED Act: Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development
The Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act restores the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) to its original purpose as a procedural check rather than a tool to weaponize against lawful energy and infrastructure projects.
Op-Ed
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December 10, 2025
Want Cheaper Gas? End California’s Special Recipe
Every Californian knows the feeling of dread at the gas pump. As prices climb past five, six, or even seven dollars a gallon, we are told it’s the fault of distant wars or greedy oil companies. If only that were true. The fact is that California’s sky-high gas prices are a self-inflicted wound, the direct result of state policies that intentionally make our fuel supply expensive, fragile, and artificially scarce.
Topics
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Videos
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America First Policy Institute Global Energy Summit
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National Academy of Sciences’ Fast-Track Climate Review is a Political End-Run
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Energizing Pennsylvania Fueling America’s Future
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H.R.1 Energy Roundtable Discussion
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Unleashing U.S. Energy Dominance Livestream Discussion
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The Urgent Need to Restore American Energy Independence
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Rick Perry joined Cavuto Live on Fox to discuss the energy crisis and oil restrictions from Russia
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Rick Perry joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to discuss the energy crisis
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Administrator Andrew Wheeler joined ‘Mornings with Maria’ on Fox Business
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Administrator Andrew Wheeler joined Fox Business Tonight with David Asman
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Administrator Andrew Wheeler joined Rob Schmitt Tonight on Newsmax
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