The Biden administration is facing mounting criticism for their handling of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), as they have announced that they will not be refilling it as promised.
During a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre appeared to struggle when pressed on the issue, leading some to question the competence of the current administration.
It all started a few years ago when President Biden promised to refill the SPR in order to combat rising gas prices, which he blamed on Russian President Vladimir Putin and his invasion of Ukraine. However, it seems that the administration is now backing out of this promise, claiming that the high cost of oil is preventing them from following through.
When Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy asked why the SPR was not being refilled as initially planned, Jean-Pierre gave a halting response and shifted the responsibility to the Department of Energy. She also suggested that the issue was not whether or not the SPR would be refilled but rather how it would be done. This lack of decisiveness and shifting of blame is concerning, especially considering that gas prices continue to rise and Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
DOOCY TIME: “First, the — so, you guys started draining the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to try and help with ‘the Putin Price Hike’ a few years ago. Said You were going to refill it. But now it doesn’t seem like that’s happening. Why?”
KJP: “Well, from — I believe the Department… pic.twitter.com/K5v77241lM
— Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) April 3, 2024
Furthermore, reports have surfaced that the Department of Energy has canceled its latest tender for crude oil to replenish the SPR due to the high cost of oil. This clearly indicates that the administration is more concerned with its own agenda than the well-being of the American people.
The Department of Energy has canceled its latest tender for crude oil for the replenishment of the strategic petroleum reserve after oil prices moved higher than the DoE is comfortable with.
Last month, the DoE purchased 2.8 million barrels at a price of $81 per barrel, which… pic.twitter.com/PDu7IwP7or
— Wall Street Silver (@WallStreetSilv) April 3, 2024
It is evident that President Biden prioritizes his climate agenda over the needs of the American people. By draining the SPR for political reasons and cutting domestic production, he has left our critical reserve vulnerable. He has put the country at risk during a time of rising turmoil in the Middle East.
The incompetence of the current administration is costing American taxpayers more money at the pump and at the grocery store. It is time for them to take responsibility and follow through on their promises. Refilling the SPR should be a top priority, especially with the increasing tensions in the Middle East.