Kay Bailey Hutchison protects oil interests

Saying it’s bad policy and bad for her state, Texas Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison has placed a hold on the ambitious energy bill that would encourage alternative sources and boost fuel-efficiency benchmarks, The Dallas Morning News reports.

The bill would repeal tax incentives designed to increase domestic oil production and redirect the money toward other energy sources, including ethanol.

The News reports that Senators John Cornyn (Texas), Tom Coburn (Oklahoma), Larry Craig (Idaho) and Jim DeMint (South Carolina) also have worked to hold up the bill. All are Republicans.

During the 2006 election cycle, Hutchison was the No. 1 recipient in Congress of contributions from the oil and gas industry, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Cornyn ranked 10th. Texas Rep. Joe Barton was 9th.

Hutchison is widely expected to run for Texas governor in 2010.

Tweet This! Share on Facebook

Click here to sign up for the Muckety Newsletter

• Bailout supporters received 51% more campaign contributions from financial interests - September 30, 2008
• Muck tracker - Hutchison to leave Senate for governor run - July 29, 2009
• Senate passes bailout bill by overwhelming vote - October 2, 2008
• Coal-mining pals Inhofe, McConnell tie up climate-change bill - June 5, 2008
• Muck tracker - Larry Craig loses appeal - December 9, 2008
• John McCain has a long, complicated relationship with gambling interests - September 28, 2008
• Swift Boat moneymen still trying to shape public policy - July 17, 2008
• Joe Wilson’s in the doghouse - September 10, 2009
• Entertainment industry overwhelmingly supports Dems in 2008 - June 24, 2008
• Larry Craig racks up legal bills - April 24, 2008