Scott Kidwell
We have made it to December in what has been an incredibly unprecedented year. The world is going through a pandemic the likes of which none of us have experienced before. Along with that pandemic, we have seen a dramatic change in energy demand and, consequently, in operations in the Permian Basin. However, one thing remains consistent: whether “new normal” or “old normal,” the Permian Basin is the place to be for energy production in the United States, if not the world. To keep it that way, the members of the PBPA, who know the treasures of this region greater than any other, need to make sure we are telling others the benefits of what we do. Fortunately for us, the PBPA remains the voice of the Permian Basin, the best advocacy path to tell that story in Austin, Santa Fe, and Washington, D. C.
The end of the year also saw another election, with offices on the ballot ranging from President of the United States to, yes, even trustees for local college boards. Oil and natural gas, and in particular the practice of hydraulic fracturing, continued to gain as a talking point in the presidential race and others. In the final days before the election, you could see plenty of ads touting a candidate’s position on the issue one way or the other.
No matter the candidates you supported, it is incredibly important that each one of us exercise our right and vote. Whenever you vote, you give a voice to your beliefs. Thank you all for voting and making sure your voice is heard.
The PBPA is a non-partisan organization and does not weigh in on particular political parties or candidates. However, along with casting your vote, supporting the PBPA is a way to give your beliefs a voice. Going into the final days of this year’s election, we knew no matter who won the offices that were on the ballot, PBPA’s advocacy supporting the continued development of the natural resources found in the Permian Basin would be a paramount necessity in 2021 and beyond. As the world regains its demand, its need for energy, the Permian Basin will be the ideal location to satisfy that demand and PBPA is the ideal trade association to advocate for the development of our resources at the local, state, and federal levels.
Leave it to 2020 to give us a Presidential election that isn’t decided on election night, and possibly not even on the day after (when this column was written). Again, however, through all the uncertainty, the PBPA remains your ally, your advocate, your voice when it comes to operations in the Permian Basin. As we reach the end of 2020, you have a choice whether or not to continue supporting the association that is working to secure your future. Join me in continuing to support the PBPA in 2021 and together, we’ll not just survive the uncertainties, we’ll find a way to thrive.