November 5, 2020
AUSTIN – The Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA) today held its annual Lone Star Energy Forum online where Texas leaders, energy executives and political analysts discussed the intersection of industry, elections, politics and what it all means for the future of Texas.
Thursday’s Forum was moderated by TXOGA President Todd Staples and began with a Post-Election Outlook panel featuring Fox News Political Analysts Greg Gutfeld and Juan Williams to break down the election results and what they mean for the Texas oil and natural gas industry and the nation.
“Fracking and natural gas have helped pave the way for a peaceful world. This country would be nowhere without oil and gas. As much as you can promote alternative fuels, nothing comes close to natural gas. The idea of that going away is a folly,” said Greg Gutfeld.
“For over 100 years, the oil and gas industry wouldn’t exist if it hadn’t been able to adapt. The best in any industry always adapt and it’s not just a matter of managing change, so much of it comes from people who can see around the bend and in some cases create that change. In a time of a great social, political, and economic change, Texas oil and gas continues to lead,” said Juan Williams.
The program continued with an Industry Executive discussion with Devon Energy President & CEO Dave Hager on industry recovery and Texas’ continued role as the “Energy Capital of the World.”
“We have done a tremendous amount of good for our country. We have energy independence and all the benefits that we get from that. As an industry, we provide an essential for modern life. Every convenience we enjoy in modern society, oil and gas is fundamental to it,” said Dave Hager.
The program concluded with an 87th Legislative Session Outlook panel featuring Texas House Members Representative Tom Craddick, Representative Oscar Longoria and Representative Chris Paddie, which focused on statewide elections, the upcoming 87th Legislative Session and the road that lies ahead.
TXOGA also saluted the essential employees of the Texas oil and natural gas industry, the women and men of energy, with a tribute video recognizing their tireless work to consistently deliver the power and products to Texas communities and the U.S. nationwide throughout the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“While the difficulties of 2020 cannot be overstated, we know that Texas and this industry is positioned to continue its strong role of energy leadership for our country and our world,” said TXOGA President Todd Staples. “In spite of the adversity that a pandemic presents, oil and natural gas essential employees have all stepped up to the challenge with innovation, resilience and a commitment to Texas. Whether it’s switching operational resources to create hand sanitizer, donating PPE, or continuing to provide affordable, reliable energy to our communities, our families and communities are cleaner, stronger and better thanks to the oil and natural gas industry right here in the Lone Star State.”
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Founded in 1919, TXOGA is the oldest and largest oil and gas trade association in Texas representing every facet of the industry.