Michigan’s Energy Abundance Is On The Ballot

Authored by Samantha Fillmore via RealClearEnergy,

It is indisputable that energy is the lifeblood of every civilization. We are reminded of that truth daily at the gas pumps and when it’s time to recharge the latest iPhone. Another indisputable truth is that the availability and affordability of energy are as delicate as the fiber-optic cables that supply our homes with Wi-Fi.

We are living out that truth in real time between the ongoing war in the Middle East affecting the global flow of energy and the growing energy demands that accompany data center and AI proliferation. Tie that in with idealistic energy policy that results in intermittent and unreliable sources of power, and we are headed in the opposite direction of energy prosperity.

Without sound energy policy that is founded in the realities of science, we are barreling towards a reality where energy is less abundant and more expensive than it’s ever been.

Essentially, we are on the precipice of slipping and falling into a version of America that is unrecognizable from the America that we grew up in. On the local, state, and federal levels of government, each poor and uneducated decision on energy policy will slowly turn our land of prosperity into something more akin to our European counterparts, complete with their sky-high energy prices.

This is a pivotal moment for our leaders to make the correct decisions to secure our future energy and prosperity. The future of energy is in abundance. It is paramount that we ensure our energy is affordable, reliable, and clean.

Residents of Michigan are currently at that pivotal point in deciding which direction they want their state energy policy to go in. The Congressional race for Michigan’s 7th District between incumbent Tom Barrett (R) and William Lawrence (D) is a microcosm for this very important crossroads in energy policy.

In his Congressional tenure, Barrett has supported energy policy that allows the market to choose the best, most reliable, and most affordable energy sources, particularly through the initiative to “unleash American energy” in the big Beautiful Bill. Furthermore, he has recognized that the permitting process for U.S. LNG exports should be improved to expedite the process and that the Inflation Reduction Act has, “[F]ailed to meet our energy needs,” by funneling hundreds of billions of dollars into clean energy projects that fail to produce energy when the wind doesn’t blow, and the sun doesn’t shine.

As Congressman for the Wolverine State, Barrett has been overt in his opposition to Michigan Democrats’ “Extreme energy mandates,” requiring electricity production to use 100% green energy.

In a February 2026 X post, Barrett said: “Policies have consequences, and Michigan Democrats’ extreme energy mandates continue driving energy costs through the roof. Michigan families can’t afford to keep paying the price,” in response to news breaking that Michigan energy customers should expect another rate hike.

Staying on-brand, in a March 2026 X post, Barrett said: “While Michigan Democrats double down on their failed green energy mandates that are driving up utility bills, I’m fighting to increase consumer choice and unleash affordable, reliable energy that gives you and your family the stability you deserve,” once again citing his goal to keep energy prosperity a reality for his home state.

Through the power of his actions and votes in the halls of Congress, and through his continued advocacy for Michigan energy abundance, by way of affordability and reliability, Tom Barrett understands the dire importance of the crossroads Michigan is at.

On the other hand, William Lawrence participated in “[D]esigning the Green New Deal,” according to a November 2025 X post. Lawrence has said that in Congress he will, “[F]ight for investment to secure the climate we depend on.” Furthermore, Lawrence was a co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, a climate group that claims, “[They] are the climate revolution,” and demands a “transition away from all forms of fossil fuels as quickly as possible,” along with “no new oil, gas, or coal projects.”

The feeling that Lawrence is not interested in securing energy prosperity for the Wolverine State is palpable. Rather, it is evident that he is interested in pushing political ideology at the literal cost of Michiganders’ electricity bills.

This is the duty and responsibility of our leaders to cultivate an environment to improve cities, grow and sustain a healthy population, incentivize business investments and technological developments, and all other elements of industry that once made Michigan an economic powerhouse in former decades. This requires energy. Abundant energy. Affordable energy that will be there at the flip of the switch when the sun is not shining, and the wind isn’t blowing.

Energy is the lifeblood of every economy, and Michigan is no different. There are several issues to consider in all Congressional races; however, for people who are struggling to pay their energy bills, this issue may rise above the others.

Samantha Fillmore is the Senior State Government Relations Manager for Heartland Impact, the advocacy arm of The Heartland Institute, a 40-year-old public policy think tank based in Schaumburg, IL.