President Donald Trump’s visit to the Port of Corpus Christi has drawn strong praise from Texas oil and natural gas leaders, who say his pro-energy policies mark a decisive shift from the previous administration. The Gulf Coast port is one of the nation’s largest liquefied natural gas export hubs and a key artery for American energy shipments abroad.
Industry leaders argue that president trump’s regulatory rollbacks and support for expanded LNG exports contrast sharply with policies under former President Joe Biden, whose administration took numerous actions affecting fossil fuel development. Texas producers continued to set production records in recent years, aided by state-level backing from Gov. Greg Abbott, the legislature, and the Texas Railroad Commission.
Christi Craddick said the administration’s emphasis on energy dominance and regulatory reform strengthens Texas’ ability to manage production responsibly. She emphasized that Texas leads the nation in oil and natural gas output and that the industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs while contributing to schools and infrastructure funding.
Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil & Gas Association, said Trump’s visit highlights how American energy leadership begins in Texas. He noted that the state has reached record crude oil and natural gas production levels, with surplus energy exported to allies through infrastructure concentrated along the Coastal Bend.
Staples said substantial private investment in pipelines, processing facilities, and port infrastructure has positioned Corpus Christi as a global energy gateway. He added that a favorable federal policy climate allows producers to continue supplying affordable energy to domestic consumers while maintaining export competitiveness.
Ed Longanecker, president of the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association, said a stable regulatory environment is critical for sustaining growth. He pointed to the importance of permitting reform to avoid delays that could hinder pipeline and export terminal expansion.
Thure Cannon of the Texas Pipeline Association echoed that sentiment, noting that while market fundamentals ultimately drive investment decisions, predictable federal and state coordination is essential for long-term planning.
Despite market fluctuations and lower commodity prices affecting upstream employment, industry leaders remain optimistic about long-term demand, particularly from non-OECD economies and petrochemical sectors. They argue that continued domestic production ensures national security and reliable supply chains.
President Trump is expected to highlight energy production, export growth, and infrastructure development during his remarks at the port.
