Energy & Entrepreneurs

Energy Views from Ohio

by Raymond J. Keating

Ohio is Middle America in many ways, not just in a geographic sense, but also politically and economically.

In political terms, Ohio has been a key state in deciding who becomes president of the United States. In fact, from 1964 through 2008, Ohio has always gone with the eventual winner of the White House. For good measure, it's usually a close contest, with the last big winner in Ohio being George H.W. Bush in 1988.

As a result, Ohio gets a great deal of attention as a swing state in presidential elections.

Meanwhile, as bad as the national economy has been in recent years, it's been a longer and tougher road in Ohio. In terms of real economic growth, Ohio's has lagged behind the rest of the nation for some dozen years.

Given these political and economic realities and challenges, it is worth noting the results of a new poll released on March 5 by API regarding the energy views of likely voters in Ohio. Key findings:

• 73% of likely voters in Ohio favor increased development of U.S. oil and natural gas resources.

• 91% agree that such development could lead to more U.S. jobs.

• 86% believe it would boost U.S. energy security.

• 84% believe increased oil and natural gas development would reduce consumer costs.

• 75% believe that such development would boost revenue for the government.

• Finally, it was reported, "Seventy-four percent believe that some in Washington are intentionally delaying domestic oil and natural gas development, potentially hurting the economy and leading to higher energy costs for consumers."

Ohio voters understand the important role of energy in our economy, and the importance of allowing domestic oil and natural gas production to expand. Of course, the question is: Do politicians, including those seeking reelection and others looking to unseat incumbents, understand these energy realities?

To the extent that elected officials remove barriers to enhanced energy production, consumers, small businesses and the overall economy will benefit accordingly - in Ohio and across the rest of the nation.

_______

Raymond J. Keating is chief economist for the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. His new book is "Chuck" vs. the Business World: Business Tips on TV.