The following was written by Todd Staples, President of the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA):
Texas is a trusted partner to the world. The Lone Star State not only exports oil, natural gas, and refined products; Texas exports confidence. From recent U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities to increased tensions in the South China Sea, global energy security is once again under serious strain. While these events generate uncertainty, Texas energy remains a central and stabilizing force, serving as a powerful reminder that energy underpins every aspect of modern life – and helping to cushion the world from the full impact of global disruptions.
Geopolitics has always influenced energy markets, but today’s risks are historic in scope. Iran has renewed threats to mine the Strait of Hormuz – the chokepoint for nearly 20% of global oil shipments. North Korea has issued provocative statements suggesting nuclear support for Iran as a deterrent. Meanwhile, Europe’s energy outlook remains unsettled as the continent works to reduce reliance on Russian natural gas.
These risks matter – not only to global stability, but to human development and economic opportunity. And Texas plays a critical role in addressing them. Our state leads the nation in oil and natural gas production, pipeline miles, refining, processing, and export capacity. Allies across Europe, Asia, and Latin America depend on us for reliable, affordable energy.
Texas producers have consistently stepped up when market stability is threatened. With about three-quarters of Texas LNG exports recently flowing to Europe, we’ve played a critical role in helping reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian natural gas. Our crude oil, natural gas liquids, and liquefied petroleum gas exports also provide reliable, cost-effective fuels and feedstocks essential for heating, cooking, and manufacturing worldwide.
However, delivering energy at home and abroad – especially in times of geopolitical instability –requires more than abundant resources. It depends on modern infrastructure, predictable regulatory policies, and the flexibility to respond quickly when global supply chains are strained. In this sense, Texas energy is more than production – it represents reliability, transparency, and trust. When markets become volatile, our resources, logistics networks, and stable operating environment provide strategic advantages for the United States and its allies.
Looking ahead, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The U.S. economy, which contracted in the first quarter of 2025, depends on abundant, affordable energy to power growth. Whether the challenge is securing global shipping routes or expanding export infrastructure, Texas is key to energy security – both domestically and worldwide. Maintaining that leadership, however, requires action. Streamlined permitting, targeted infrastructure investment, and trade policies that safeguard market access are essential to ensure Texas energy remains reliable, competitive, and ready to meet global demand.
In an increasingly unpredictable world, Texas energy remains rock solid. The Lone Star State has always delivered when it counts – and with the right policies and investment, we’ll continue doing so, strengthening energy security at home and abroad.