Rising energy costs have been a focal point of discussion throughout San Diego.
California Republican Rep. Young Kim blasted the Biden Administration for deflecting blame to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding rising energy prices.
“President Biden is blaming Ukraine for this, but we all know gas prices were high even before the Ukraine crisis,” Kim told Fox News. “This Administration has also actively cut off domestic production since the first time he’s taken office. We also need to understand it’s better for our economy, national security and environment to produce energy right here instead of relying on other countries.”
Kim proceeded to criticize a House Democrat-backed bill, which she claims would implement “socialist price controls.”
“The crazy thing is that House Democrats blocked the bill to promote U.S. energy six times, and instead they put a bill to implement socialist price controls like they did in Venezuela,” said Kim. “We tried this in the 1970s. And it led to record high inflation and the Biden and the democratic policy will only make this problem worse.”
She explained that the only solution is to increase domestic energy production. Kim claimed the Democrat plan would only lead to worse consequences.
“[The Democrat plan] is not the way to lower prices or hold companies accountable, or it doesn’t help our economy,” Kim said. “It’s socialism. Our plan is to be energy independent in America. We need to unleash American energy and increase production year so we can lower gas prices protect our energy independence. We can produce cleaner energy, but right here in America.”
Rising energy prices have been putting on strain on residents across the country, especially in San Diego.
“This is really hurting our average Americans, especially Californians, who’ve seen higher taxes all the time more than the national norm,” Kim said.
San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond has criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom for not utilizing the large state budget surplus to help residents handle skyrocketing energy prices. Energy officials say the average electric rate for residents of San Diego rose by close to 8% in January.
