House Republicans Investigate Energy Secretary Granholm's "Out of Touch" EV Road Trip

The House Oversight and Accountability Committee is launching an investigation into Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm's recent electric vehicle (EV) road trip, which has come under fire from Republicans who claim it is a "publicity stunt" that highlights the Biden Administration's disconnect from everyday Americans. Oversight Chairman James Comer and Oversight Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Pat Fallon sent a letter to Granholm expressing their concerns and requesting documents and information regarding the purpose, cost, and consequences of the trip.

The controversy surrounding Granholm's road trip arose earlier this month when reports surfaced that Energy Department staffers had used a gas-powered vehicle to block off an EV charger for the secretary outside a Walmart in Grovetown, Georgia. This led to a frustrated family calling the police to report the incident, as they were forced to wait to use the charger due to the presence of a non-electric vehicle. The incident, which was captured in a 911 call obtained by Fox News Digital, drew attention to the logistical challenges faced by zero-emissions cars, a topic that Granholm, President Biden, and Democratic-led states are actively promoting.

During a House Science and Technology Committee hearing on September 14, Granholm acknowledged the incident and attributed it to "poor judgment on the part of the team," deflecting blame from herself. However, House Republicans argue that the incident highlights the reliance on the fossil fuel industry to support EVs, despite the administration's efforts to vilify and dismantle it. They criticize Granholm and her staff for not making practical decisions regarding the EV vehicles chosen for the road trip.

In their letter to Granholm, Comer and Fallon question the effectiveness of green energy, accusing the Biden Administration of using ICE vehicles and gasoline throughout the road trip to create an illusion of success. They also raise concerns about Granholm's decision to avoid using a Tesla vehicle, suggesting it may be politically motivated and aimed at Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. Additionally, they mention the ongoing United Auto Workers strike, which they argue is a consequence of job losses due to the shift towards EVs.

The investigation launched by House Republicans into Granholm's EV road trip reflects their determination to preserve vehicle consumer choice and challenge the Biden Administration's push for widespread adoption of EVs. The letter sent to Granholm serves as a request for transparency and accountability, as Republicans seek to understand the true motives, costs, and consequences of the trip. The Department of Energy has yet to respond to this request for comment. Meanwhile, President Biden himself has recently joined UAW members on the picket line, demonstrating his support for the shift towards EVs and commitment to reducing automobile pollution through proposed standards.