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

Expert Insights | June 1, 2026

Powering the Rust Belt: How the Working Families Tax Cut Act Is Transforming Ohio’s Energy Sector

Signed by President Donald Trump on July 4, 2025, the Working Family Tax Cuts (WFTCA) has rapidly spurred the renewal and transformation of the nation’s hollowed-out post-industrial regions.

Op-Ed | May 20, 2026

Ohio’s ratepayer protection pledge works

Private investment is coming to Ohio in ways that the state hasn’t seen in a generation. This is not by accident, but because leaders at the Ohio Statehouse and federal partners understand the importance of economic development.

Commentary | May 15, 2026

The Energy Build-Out Is Happening. Here’s Proof.

Americans voted for energy abundance, and the door Washington spent years holding shut is finally open. Families want lower bills, workers want good jobs, and communities want a real chance to grow again. After years of being told no, the country is walking through that door fast.

Commentary | April 22, 2026