Hydraulic fracking is very much a necessary part of the future of natural gas.

I think Gov. Romney and Congressman Ryan are living in a fairly tale land on their energy policy.

Our country has suffered from an on-again, off-again energy policy that has failed to get us to energy independence. As President Obama has said, we need a comprehensive energy plan for the country that includes conventional resources like oil and gas, but that also takes advantage of wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, and other renewable resources.

I don't think anyone can speculate what will happen with respect to oil prices and gas prices because they are set on the global economy.

Growing up in a very rural and remote area in Colorado's San Luis Valley - one of the poorest counties in the United States - essentially created the framework of values from which I operate. I stand up for the little guy. I fight discrimination at all levels. I fight for an inclusive America.

In my time in the U.S. Senate, I tried to craft an energy policy... I will be part of President Obama's efforts to achieve energy independence and enhance the landscape. I am also part of his reform agenda.

I want all the interested parties to come together and develop a solution that provides additional water and helps the lower Arkansas River communities thrive again.