POLITICO Energy Why Mike Lee’s plan to sell public lands got cut from the megalaw
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Jul 23, 2025 Garrett Downs, a Congressional reporter from Politico's E&E News, discusses the fallout from Senator Mike Lee's failed attempt to sell federal land as part of a GOP bill. He delves into the fierce opposition from Democrats, conservationists, and even some Republicans. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for public land debates in Congress and ongoing legal challenges regarding oil drilling's impact on endangered wildlife. Downs provides insight into the complexities surrounding public ownership and potential future legislative battles.
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Mike Lee's Land Transfer Priority
- Senator Mike Lee has long prioritized transferring federal land control to states, reflecting Utah's distinct view on public lands.
- This stance contrasts with many Western states where public lands remain politically popular and protected.
Broad Opposition Sank Proposal
- Senator Lee's public land sale proposal lacked support from almost all other senators, including some Republicans.
- Political and online opposition framed his modest proposal as extreme, causing its removal from the bill.
Lee's Mixed Outcome on Mega Bill
- Mike Lee succeeded in advancing other energy priorities like expanding oil and gas drilling and rolling back Inflation Reduction Act funds.
- He voted for the bill but was disappointed the public land sale provision was excluded.