Energy Hostage Crisis Part 2 - Follow The Money

"Welcome back. In Part 1, we looked at the ships. We looked at the missiles in the Strait of Hormuz. But today, we’re looking at the ledger. Because while the physical blockade is 7,000 miles away, the financial blockade is happening right at your local gas station. Today, we follow the money.” Those who give it and those who receive it."You might think your state capital is a safe distance from the $450 million circus in D.C. It isn't. In fact, it’s often cheaper—and more effective—for Big Oil to buy a state senator than a U.S. Senator. From Sacramento to Austin to Santa Fe, the industry is dropping over $120 million a year to make sure that no matter what happens in Washington, the rules in your backyard stay written in their favor. They aren't just lobbying for 'energy'; they are lobbying to make sure you have no choice but to pay their price.”Since Texas manages its own lands (the "Permanent School Fund"), their numbers are separate and massive. In 2024/2025, the industry paid a record $27.3 billion in state and local taxes and royalties in Texas alone.The "Name Names" Context: While $27 billion sounds like a lot, remember that the Texas oil and gas industry’s direct Gross Regional Product exceeded $366 billion in that same period. They are paying roughly 7.5% of their regional product in taxes and royalties—while you likely pay a higher effective tax rate on your personal income