Trump rolls back Biden-era methane rules, touts Texas oil boom in final midterm push for Paxton

LUBBOCK, TEXAS: President Donald Trump on Tuesday, October 27, announced plans to roll back federal methane regulations and promoted increased oil production in Texas, making a final push for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton just days before the November 3 midterm elections. 

As polls indicate that Democrats can likely flip the Texas Senate seat which Republicans have held for decades, Trump promised lower energy costs as rising fuel prices and affordability concerns following the Iran war have become major political liabilities for the GOP. Trump touted Venezuelan oil and announced proposed changes to environmental rules governing oil and gas producers.

Trump announces methane rule rollback, promises $45 billion in savings

Addressing a rally in Lubbock, Trump announced his administration was moving to dismantle regulations introduced under former President Joe Biden that require oil and gas companies to monitor and repair equipment to prevent methane leaks.

"Tonight, I'm officially terminating Biden's expensive and unnecessary methane regulations to save consumers and energy producers $45 billion in costs, unlock vast quantities of Texas natural gas and produce 210 million barrels of oil," Trump said.

The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposal would ease requirements for smaller, low-producing wells, end the Super Emitter Program that allows approved outside observers to report major methane leaks, and relax restrictions on the routine flaring of gas during oil production. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has also argued that reducing regulatory costs would help Americans afford fuel and home heating.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and a major contributor to global warming. Environmental advocates have criticised the proposed changes, arguing they would weaken safeguards against leaks and allow oil and gas companies to release more pollution.

Earlier in the day, Trump appeared beside an oil tanker near the Port of Corpus Christi, which he said was carrying the first Venezuelan oil received under a US agreement. "We're celebrating the greatest oil victory in history. To the victor belongs the spoils, right?" Trump said. The oil is expected to go to refineries owned by ExxonMobil and Citgo, a White House official told Reuters.

Trump targets Talarico as Paxton faces competitive Senate race

Trump's Texas appearances marked his third visit this month and fourth overall to campaign for midterm elections, as he sought to mobilize Republican voters behind Paxton, who faces Democratic state Representative James Talarico in a closely watched Senate race. 

Texas has consistently voted Republican in statewide elections for decades, but Democrats see an opportunity to win a Senate seat that could affect control of the chamber. Paxton won the Republican nomination with Trump's backing.

Trump has also repeatedly attacked the Democratic nominee Talarico during the rally, saying that “our policy has always been drill, baby, drill. And man, we are drilling now. But if Texas elects Communist James 'Talafreako,' that wealth will rapidly disappear."

Trump made the remarks as Republicans face voter frustration over the cost of living and elevated gasoline prices. US average gasoline prices reached $4.27 per gallon on Tuesday, according to AAA, compared to averages below $3 at the start of the year.