American Energy Renaissance

Floor Speech

Mr. CORNYN. I thank the Senator from Alaska for her wise words. I wasn't here for all of her remarks, but I was able to hear the percentage of her State that is owned by the Federal Government, which is extraordinary. I think she cited roughly 2 percent in Texas. That was a deal we cut in 1845, and it turned out it was a pretty good deal because Texas lands are overwhelmingly private lands rather than government lands.

I think part of the point she was making as well is that while we have seen a resurgence of activity on private land, particularly when it comes to the shale gas, and on oil plays on public lands we haven't seen that same sort of productivity. If the Federal Government would simply take the same approach that the private sector is taking when it comes to developing these God-given natural resources, it could really boost our economy further and lower unemployment.

So I thank my colleague for her wise words this morning.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that I be allowed to speak as in morning business for up to 15 minutes.

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