Trump Reverses Biden Order
The Trump administration took a major step on Wednesday to rebuild America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), awarding contracts to purchase 1 million barrels of crude oil—a move widely seen as a return to responsible energy policy after years of politically driven drawdowns under the previous administration.
According to the Energy Department, the winning bids were selected based on competitive pricing and strict quality requirements. The crude oil will be delivered to the Bryan Mound SPR site throughout 2025 and early 2026, following an October solicitation aimed at kickstarting the long process of restoring the nation’s emergency stockpile.
Trump’s Promise: Restore Energy Independence and Protect America
Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized that this purchase fulfills a key promise made by President Donald Trump—to correct the energy mismanagement of the last administration and rebuild America’s emergency reserves to ensure long-term national security.
“President Trump promised to protect America’s energy security by refilling and responsibly managing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve,” Wright said. “These contracts represent an important step in reversing the reckless and costly energy decisions of the last administration.”
Wright stressed that although rebuilding the SPR will take time, every new barrel purchased strengthens the nation’s ability to weather global crises, foreign conflicts, and supply disruptions.
Biden-Era Decisions Drained the Reserve to Dangerous Levels
Under the previous administration, the SPR fell to its lowest level since 1983, a decline that alarmed energy experts, national security analysts, and millions of Americans concerned about the country’s increasing reliance on foreign oil.
The reserve currently holds just over 400 million barrels, far below its full capacity of 700 million barrels. The sharp drop followed an unprecedented 180-million-barrel release in 2022, a move that cost taxpayers nearly $280 million and forced the postponement of major maintenance projects—leaving critical storage cavities and injection systems under severe strain.
For many conservatives, the massive release symbolized a dangerous shift away from energy independence and toward political quick fixes that leave the U.S. weaker during global uncertainty.
A Strategic Return to American Strength
By beginning the refill process now, the Trump administration is signaling a broader policy shift back toward domestic production, American strength, and long-term stability. Replenishing the SPR ensures that the United States is prepared for:
- Potential global supply shocks
- Rising international conflicts
- Market volatility
- Foreign manipulation of energy prices
- Emergency disruptions affecting U.S. consumers
These steps align closely with conservative energy policies that prioritize self-reliance, national security, and American jobs over dependence on foreign governments.
Buying at Today’s Prices: A Smart, Strategic Move
Energy analysts say the decision to purchase oil now—when prices remain moderate—allows the U.S. to rebuild reserves strategically before the next international crisis. Replenishing the SPR during calmer market conditions lowers long-term costs, strengthens bargaining power, and reinforces America’s position as a global energy leader.
For older Americans who remember past oil shocks, gas lines, and foreign embargoes, the move represents a return to stable, responsible leadership.
A Clear Contrast: Reckless Drawdowns vs. Strategic Restoration
The difference between the two administrations could not be more stark:
- Trump: Rebuilding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to protect American families and strengthen national security.
- Previous Administration: Drained the reserve to the lowest level in four decades and left the country more vulnerable to global chaos.
This refill marks a renewed commitment to energy independence, a safer America, and a stronger future.
