Today, the White House released its National Security Strategy which details President Obama’s national security priorities in the final two years of his presidency. Of the nearly 30 page document, I would like to highlight a specific portion that calls for increased American energy security (on page 16).

Page 16

“The United States is now the world leader in oil and gas production. America’s energy revival is not only good for growth, it offers new buffers against the coercive use of energy by some and new opportunities for helping others transition to low-carbon economies. American oil production has increased dramatically, impacting global markets. Imports have decreased substantially, reducing the funds we send overseas. Consumption has declined, reducing our vulnerability to global supply disruption and price shocks. However, we still have a significant stake in the energy security of our allies in Europe and elsewhere. Seismic shifts in supply and demand are underway across the globe. Increasing global access to reliable and affordable energy is one of the most powerful ways to support social and economic development and to help build new markets for U.S. technology and investment. The challenges faced by Ukrainian and European dependence on Russian energy supplies puts a spotlight on the need for an expanded view of energy security that recognizes the collective needs of the United States, our allies, and trading partners as well as the importance of competitive energy markets. Therefore, we must promote diversification of energy fuels, sources, and routes, as well as encourage indigenous sources of energy supply. Greater energy security and independence within the Americas is central to these efforts. We will also stay engaged with global suppliers and our partners to reduce the potential for energy-related conflict in places like the Arctic and Asia. Our energy security will be further enhanced by living up to commitments made in the Rome Declaration and through our all-of-the-above energy strategy for a low-carbon world. We will continue to develop American fossil resources while becoming a more efficient country that develops cleaner, alternative fuels and vehicles. We are demonstrating that America can and will lead the global economy while reducing our emissions.”

The inclusion of this language is directly in response a December 2013 letter sent to President Obama and Susan Rice from Sen. Lisa Murkowski that specifically urged them to “to use the release of the National Security Strategy as an opportunity to share with the American people your view of how this energy revolution is contributing not only to our nation’s prosperity, but also to its security.”

In response to Murkowski’s letter, Susan Rice pledged to take into consideration Murkowski’s recommendations and today the National Security Strategy is released calling for an “expanded view of energy security” and trumpeting domestic energy production as strengthening our security.

It goes without saying that Sen. Murkowski wants to ensure the development of America’s natural energy resources in order to increase energy security at home and for our allies. This starts with increasing production and ensuring that American energy has a place in the global energy marketplace.