Energy independence isn’t a partisan issue. It’s an American imperative. It strengthens our economy and secures our homeland.

For too long, we’ve allowed our nation’s energy policy to drift away from common sense. The result? Higher prices, greater instability and dangerous reliance on countries that do not share our values. It’s time for a course correction that restores energy independence as a cornerstone of American strength.

As a lifelong conservative, I believe in solutions rooted in reality, not ideology. The reality is this: Energy independence is not just an economic issue.

It’s a matter of national security, public safety and global stability. If we want to secure the blessings of liberty for future generations, we must again harness our resources and lead with principle.

America has long been blessed with abundant natural resources like oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear power and renewables.

An ‘all-of-the-above’ energy strategy is essential for the U.S.

The federal government’s overregulation of energy production has weakened our standing on the world stage. By shutting down pipelines and stifling drilling permits, we’ve traded energy abundance for bureaucratic red tape and handed leverage to regimes that use energy as a geopolitical weapon.

When we rely on oil from Venezuela, Iran or Russia, we risk price spikes and compromise our national security. These regimes don’t just sell oil; they fund terror, stoke unrest, and undermine freedom. Why should we empower them when we have the resources right here at home?

We shouldn’t. A strong and stable America begins with energy produced in America, by Americans, for Americans.

Families in Georgia are feeling the high fuel and electricity costs. Whether at the gas pump or within the monthly utility bill, energy prices ripple through every sector of the economy. Inflation, still stubbornly high, is largely driven by the cost of energy. When we increase domestic supply, we lower prices, ease the burden on working families and create better-paying jobs in the process.

This is why I support an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy. We don’t need to choose between economic growth and environmental responsibility when we can have both. Georgia has shown what’s possible when innovation, conservation, and responsible development work together.

Let’s continue that momentum by encouraging clean-burning natural gas, advancing nuclear technology, investing in American-made renewables, and revitalizing our domestic oil and gas production.

Do not abandon traditional energy sources to fight climate change

We must also recognize that public safety depends on a stable energy grid. Emergency services, law enforcement, hospitals and water systems all require reliable access to power. When the grid falters, lives are at risk. We saw this in other states during recent winters and hurricanes. Georgia must be prepared for anything, starting with resilient, homegrown energy systems.

Energy independence also allows us to stand with our allies and lead on the world stage. By exporting clean, affordable American energy, we can provide countries in Europe and Asia with alternatives to hostile energy suppliers. In doing so, we strengthen democracy, support economic freedom, and push back against tyranny on the global stage.

Critics will say we must abandon traditional energy sources to fight climate change, but that’s a false choice. America has already led the world in emissions reductions thanks to market innovation and cleaner fuels. Rather than handicap ourselves with excessive government mandates, let’s continue our leadership by outpacing the rest of the world through ingenuity and excellence.

The United States should never apologize for using the resources we’ve been blessed with. Instead, we should modernize our energy infrastructure, streamline the permitting process, and unleash the power of the private sector. In doing so, we can resist the radical environmental agenda that prioritizes virtue signaling over results.

Energy independence isn’t a partisan issue. It’s an American imperative. It strengthens our economy, secures our homeland, and ensures our future remains in our own hands. By putting common sense back into our energy policy, I believe we can continue to be good stewards of our environment while also ensuring our lights stay on.

Georgia state Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County.

The creation of the Declaration of Independence stands as one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the United States. It not only marked the birth of a nation but also exemplified the courage, vision, and philosophical insight of the Founding Fathers. These men, through their work on the Declaration, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. Their dedication to the cause of liberty has left an indelible mark on the United States and continues to inspire generations to this day. Next year we will celebrate our 250^th or Semiquincentennial anniversary!

At the heart of the Declaration of Independence lies a profound sense of purpose. The Founding Fathers knew that they were not merely drafting a document to break from a foreign power; they were establishing the principles upon which the nation would stand. As they set pen to paper, they were not just acting in their own self-interest but were forging a new path for humanity. Their task was monumental creating a document that would be both a statement of independence and a timeless declaration of the rights of individuals. In doing so, they were laying the groundwork for a system of government that would prioritize liberty and self-governance.

One of the most striking aspects of the Declaration is the boldness with which it challenges existing power structures. The document opens with a statement of universal principles: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” These words, simple yet powerful, were a direct challenge to the idea that kings and monarchs held divine authority over their subjects. By invoking these universal rights, the Founding Fathers shifted the basis of political authority from the crown to the people themselves.

The decision to declare independence was not made lightly. The Founding Fathers were fully aware of the risks involved in their actions. Signing the Declaration of Independence was, in essence, an act of treason against the British crown, punishable by death. Yet, despite the personal risk, they chose to stand firm in their belief that the cause of liberty was worth any sacrifice. In fact, Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration, later wrote, “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” This sentiment reflected the sense of duty that the Founding Fathers felt toward the creation of a free nation. Their bravery and selflessness were instrumental in the success of the American Revolution.

While the Declaration was certainly a revolutionary document, it was also a reflection of the Founding Fathers’ deep understanding of the complexities of governance. They knew that the establishment of a new government would require more than just the rejection of monarchy; it would require the creation of a system that would ensure justice, balance, and the protection of individual rights. The Declaration of Independence, in this sense, became not only a call for freedom but also a blueprint for the future governance of the United States. It was a statement that the government derives its power from the consent of the governed, a concept that would later be fully realized in the Constitution.

The inspirational work of the Founding Fathers in creating the Declaration of Independence cannot be overstated. Their courage, vision, and dedication to the ideals of liberty continue to inspire people around the world. The Declaration, with its powerful words and revolutionary ideas, laid the foundation for a nation built on the principles of equality, justice, and freedom. It is a testament to the enduring strength of the American spirit and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to secure the rights and freedoms that we hold dear today.

As we reflect this July 4^th, Independence Day on the legacy of the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded that the work of the Founding Fathers was not just an isolated event in history. Their vision continues to shape the American identity and guides us in our ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union. God Bless America!

This summer, our work on your behalf continues in full force. I’m actively serving on several committees, meeting with department leaders, engaging with local organizations, and attending conferences across the state. One of the most important parts of my job is helping constituents navigate challenges and get results. It’s an honor to serve you and be your voice in government…