Senate Republicans ae looking for an off-ramp on an issue that divides their leadership team: year-round ethanol sales, Axios reports
- "We are probably going to have to make a tweak on the small refinery exemption, which we're working on," Sen. John Hoeven (R-N.D.) told Axios.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.)wants to kill two birds with one bill: increase corn prices for vulnerable senators, and increase the fuel supply to help lower gas prices.
- But he needs to deconflict with Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), his second-in-command.
- "I oppose the year-round E15 mandate ," Barrasso said on the Senate floor Thursday, referencing a gas blend of up to 15% ethanol. "I oppose it because it hurts small oil refineries and all of the people who work at them."
Context
The Senate Republicans' discussions around year-round ethanol sales indicate a complex political landscape that may impact both energy markets and agricultural sectors. While efforts to negotiate an exemption for small refineries suggest a move towards easing regulations, there’s a noticeable divide in leadership that could introduce uncertainty into the legislative outcome. This could influence WTI and broader commodity prices depending on how the negotiations unfold and their ultimate effect on gasoline supply and corn demand.
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