Democrats' big win clouds the permitting picture
Summary
Democrats’ election gains have lowered analysts’ estimates that Congress will pass a bipartisan permitting bill during the lame-duck session. The White House and the bill’s Democratic co-authors still urge action this year, while some Democrats want to wait for hearings and changes; one energy research firm sees better odds of a deal in 2027–2028.Key Facts
- The bill would make it easier to approve energy and other infrastructure projects, including gas pipelines.
- Critics say the Senate plan weakens environmental protections and tribal input.
- Capstone, Jefferies, TD Cowen and ClearView Energy Partners said Democrats’ election gains reduce the chances of passage this year.
- Rapidan Energy Group cut its estimate of lame-duck passage to 20%–25%, from 30% before the election.
- Rapidan sees better prospects for a permitting deal with President Donald Trump in 2027–2028, citing his first-term deals with Democrats.
- Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democratic co-author, said the Senate should act now, arguing the bill could lower costs for families.
- Rep. Jared Huffman opposes the bill as written and has called for hearings and amendments next year.
- The White House said it supports the bipartisan deal and believes permitting reform should pass now.
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