Statement by Governor Asa Hutchinson on the Biden Administration's Decision to Block Drilling in Alaska

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Asa for America campaign released the following statement today in regard to the news that President Joe Biden moved to block oil drilling across large sections of Alaska and cancel oil leases in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. This statement can be attributed to Governor Asa Hutchinson:

"President Biden's misguided decision to ban oil and gas development in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve will have far-reaching negative economic and security implications for America. This decision is wrong. It will only further weaken our nation's energy independence and devastate hundreds of families who will lose jobs due to this short-sighted decision. While I understand the need for conservation and the protection of our nation's breathtaking natural wonders, we need a president who enacts pro-growth policies that balance the needs of our environment, our economy, and our national security." — Gov. Asa Hutchinson