WASHINGTON, D.C.–The Keystone XL pipeline project, passed by both the U.S. House and Senate, has been vetoed by Pres. Obama, who promised that he would take the action. MEmbers of Mississippi’s Republican delegation released statements Tuesday, saying the president has passed on a golden opportunity.
“The Keystone XL represents jobs, energy and infrastructure, all of which have broad public appeal and majority bipartisan support in Congress. The President’s veto disregards these pro-growth facts and instead perpetuates the delaying tactics that have obstructed pipeline construction for years,” said Sen. Thad Cochran, an original cosponsor of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (S.1), which was approved by Senate on a 62-36 vote in January.
Sen. Roger Wicker echoed those sentiments in his statement.
“President Obama’s veto ignores the will of a clear, bipartisan majority of the American public,” said Wicker. “I am disappointed that he has put the priorities of extreme environmental special interests above those of working families. The Keystone pipeline has broad support because it would enhance our nation’s energy security while supporting thousands of good-paying jobs. Congress should move quickly to override the President.”
Rep. Steven Palazzo, (4th Dist.), said the president ignored Congress with the veto.
“This was an opportunity for the president to stand united with Congress and prove that Washington can put the American people’s priorities first. Instead of doing his job and leading our country towards prosperity, he chose to play petty politics and cower to liberal interests. I can’t begin to fathom how he can continue to justify his actions of complete disregard for the betterment of our country. The American people not only deserve answers, they deserve better,” said Palazzo.
There are likely not enough votes to override the veto.
According to the State Department, the project would support more than 42,000 jobs while having a minimal effect on the environment. The pipeline is projected to increase supply of North American energy through the shipment of more than 800,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
The phase vetoed by the president would have brought the pipeline to completion. It is already complete and operating in several areas. Obama believes there are environmental concerns that justify holding the project up until they can be rectified.
