American Energy Alliance (AEA)

American Energy Alliance (AEA)

Background

The American Energy Alliance is a 501(c)(4) not-for-profit organization founded in May, 2008. It is the advocacy arm of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Institute for Energy Research (IER). According to its website, the AEA “engages in grassroots public policy advocacy and debate concerning energy and environmental policies.”1About the AEA,” American Energy Alliance. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/VJO52

While the stated aim of the AEA is to “educate and mobilize citizens in understanding, promoting and helping to solve America’s most pressing energy and environmental policy problems,” this education has taken the form of attack ads against political candidates and messages such as “stand with coal” and “vote no on Obama’s failing energy policy.” This has led to some questions on the validity of the AEA‘s nonprofit status, especially given the AEA‘s own statement that their group is “not political.”2Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama nonprofit tells IRS it’s not ‘political’,” The Center for Public Integrity, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/k4qq2 3Stand with Coal,” American Energy Alliance, October 12, 2012. Archived May 8, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/7LDZj

The American Energy Alliance once declared that it “has no ties to any political party, and it has no interest in supporting the agenda of any particular political party.”4About Us,” American Energy Alliance. Archived June 12, 2010. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/wnjbR However, Brad Johnson at the Wonk Room noted that all of AEA‘s employees at the time were former House Republican staffers and AEA‘s website, EnergyTownHall.org, was also run by a former GOP house staffer.5Brad Johnson. “GOP Team At American Energy Alliance Runs ‘Energy Town Hall’ Oil Bus Tour,” The Wonk Room, August 22, 2009. Archived October 12, 2010. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/tuwhW

AEA has also spent millions of dollars on media advertising through Republican-orientated vendor Mentzer Media for its stated nonpartisan activities.6Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama nonprofit tells IRS it’s not ‘political’,” The Center for Public Integrity, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/k4qq2

Greenpeace reports that IER and AEA worked together on a $3.6 million anti-Obama gas price advertising campaign funded by Koch Industries. The American Energy Alliance has also received over $3.8 million from Freedom Partners, including $1.5 million in 2012, a 501(c)(6) group directed by many of the Koch brothers’ “inner circle” such as Richard Fink, Marc Short, Wayne Gable, and Kevin Gentry.7Institute for Energy Research (IER) & American Energy Alliance (AEA),” Greenpeace. Accessed May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/q1FqQ

Koch Connections

Both the American Energy Alliance and its parent organization, the Institute for Energy Research (IER), are run by Tom Pyle, a former lobbyist for Koch Industries. 8Pyle, Thomas J,” Profile at OpenSecrets. Archived May 20, 2016. Politico reports that Pyle regularly attends the mega-donor summits organized by the Koch brothers, including the 2012 winter summit in Indian Wells, Calif., where the Kochs raised more than $150 million to be directed to groups ahead of the general election.9Kochs linked to anti-Obama gas ads,” Politico, March 29, 2012. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/aMh7J

Nancy Pfotenhauer, another lobbyist for Koch Industries, is listed as a Director on AEA‘s 2014 990 tax return. Pfotenhauer, formerly Nancy Mitchell, was an advisor to Senator John McCain during his presidential election campaign, and a former director of Koch Industries’ Washington office. Pfotenhauer was Koch Industries’ chief in-house lobbyist from 1996 to 2001 with a focus on gas pipelines.10Carol Eisenberg. “McCain adviser Nancy Pfotenhauer learned ropes as lobbyist, crusader,” Muckety, September 26, 2008. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/0MSSM In 2001, Nancy Pfotenhauer left Koch Industries to become the President of the Independent Women’s Forum (IWF) and later president of both Americans for Prosperity (AFP) and the IWF. She was also executive vice president for Citizens for a Sound Economy (CSE) a group co-founded by David H. Koch.11(Press Release). “IWF Announces Exciting New Partnership,” Independent Women’s Forum, October 28, 2003. Archived November 19, 2003. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/TpCWC 12Koch Industries Inc. Lobbying Activities,” DeSmog.

Many of Pfotenhauer’s organizations have received significant funding from Koch Industries. For example:

Stance on Climate Change

2015

“At a time when the Obama administration is pushing an aggressive climate agenda in Paris, public concerns about the economy and terrorism far outpace anxieties about climate change. Rather than forcing more costly climate policies on the public, world leaders should focus their attention on the economic and national security issues that matter most to people.”17Public’s Collective ¯_(ツ)_/¯ on Climate Change,” Energy Townhall (AEA publication), December 8, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/EIKnu

2014

“Even if the apocalyptic vision painted by Al Gore and others is perfectly true—which it’s not—measures limiting the emissions from individual cities are utterly absurd. They epitomize the prevalence of symbolism over science in our climate change policy debates.”18NYC’s Climate Goal: Symbolism Over Science,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), November 20, 2014. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/XNnEk

“[A]ccording to official climate models, even if the U.S. enacted an immediate and total ban on all human emissions of greenhouse gases, the difference in global temperature by the year 2050 would be a mere five one-hundredths of a degree Celsius. And that’s the most that the U.S. government could possibly achieve, even if it relied on a ridiculously draconian ban on all future emissions.”19‘Risky Business’ Nonsense,” Energy Townhall, July 7, 2014. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/sD069

Fossil Fuels

“The morally superior choice is for people to be free to use energy to make their lives better. Today, that means having access to the abundant energy resources of coal, oil, and natural gas. Those are the technologies that lifted the developed world out of poverty, and they continue to lift millions out of poverty while they power the high-energy lives of those of us fortunate enough to live in the developed world.”20What is the Fossil Fuel Divestment Movement?American Energy Alliance, February 5, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/JDkmB

CO2

“Carbon dioxide is not dirty, and is not poisonous to humans in concentrations we observe in the atmosphere. In fact, carbon dioxide is the natural product of combustion–whether that combustion occurs within our cells (which is why humans exhale carbon dioxide), or whether carbon dioxide results from the combustion of natural gas. Carbon dioxide is essential to life on Earth because vegetation requires carbon dioxide to survive and thrive.”

[…] The policies that environmental activists advocate for, such as shutting down our nation’s affordable and reliable coal power plants, will make energy more expensive. And as we have seen in countries that have made electricity a luxury good through ill-advised energy policy–like Germany–higher energy costs exacerbate poverty and the negative health impacts associated with it.”21Earth Day: Continuing a Storied Tradition of Misleading Claims and Outrageous Predictions,” Energy Townhall (AEA publication), April 22, 2016. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/1FiCK

Nonpofit Status & Political Activities

The American Energy Alliance is registered as a 501(c)(4) not-for-profit organization, which means it is not required to disclose its funding sources and contributions are not tax-deductible. 501(c)(4) organizations, commonly referred to as “social welfare” groups, play an influential role in politics.22Sean Sullivan. “What is a 501(c)(4), anyway?The Washington Post, May 13, 2013. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/gXRMI

The IRS notes that “a section 501(c)(4) social welfare organization may engage in some political activities, so long as that is not its primary activity.” The IRS also notes that “The promotion of social welfare does not include direct or indirect participation or intervention in political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.”23Social Welfare Organizations,” IRS, November 18, 2015. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/Lmmnl

When the AEA filed for tax-exempt status in 2008, it told the IRS that it had no interest in supporting the agenda or any particular political party or political candidate,” reports The Center for Public Integrity. While AEA acknowledged “the possibility that some of AEA‘s publications and communications may be considered ‘political,’” the group asserted that it was a “nonpartisan policy-oriented organization,” not a ‘political’ organization.”24Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama nonprofit tells IRS it’s not ‘political’,” The Center for Public Integrity, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/k4qq2

Tax documents show that AEA spent over $5 million on “media and advertising” with vendor Mentzer Media, a media buying firm that works primarily with Republicans, receiving $3.9 million of that amount. In 2012, AEA had produced television ads in swing states Virginia and Ohio encouraging voters to “stand with coal” and “vote no on Obama’s failing energy policy,” while claiming they were not designed to assist Mitt Romney in unseating Barack Obama.25Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama nonprofit tells IRS it’s not ‘political’,” The Center for Public Integrity, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/k4qq2

Marcus Owens, an attorney who previously headed the IRS’ tax-exempt division, said the American Energy Alliance’s 2013 tax filing “certainly raises a red flag.”26Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama Nonprofit Tells IRS It’s Not ‘Political’,” Huffington Post, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/tO9Vt

It’s a politically active organization,” he told Huffington Post According to Owens, AEA‘s pre-election advertisement blitz “sounds like a lobbying message on its face.”27Michael Beckel. “Anti-Obama Nonprofit Tells IRS It’s Not ‘Political’,” Huffington Post, November 18, 2013. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/tO9Vt

Funding

The following data is compiled from the Conservative Transparency project. Note that as a 501(c)(4) organization, the American Energy Alliance is not required to disclose its donors, so available data is limited.28American Energy Alliance,” Conservative Transparency. Search performed May 20, 2016.

View the attached spreadsheet for additional details on American Energy Alliance funding by year (.xlsx).

As Recipient

Donor20082010201220132014201520162017Grand Total
Freedom Partners  $1,460,000$40,000$2,367,500$2,935,000$1,000,000 $7,802,500
Center to Protect Patient Rights $250,000$864,960     $1,114,960
American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers*     $340,000$250,000$350,000$940,000
Wellspring Committee$509,000$95,000      $604,000
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers       $50,000$50,000
Americans for Prosperity  $15,000     $15,000
Grand Total$509,000$345,000$2,339,960$40,000$2,367,500$3,275,000$1,250,000$400,000$10,526,460

As Donor

Recipient200920112015Grand Total
Institute for Energy Research $300,000$500,000$800,000
Americans for Prosperity $100,000 $100,000
United for Jobs$15,000  $15,000
American Committment  $10,000$10,000
Americans for Limited Government  $20,000$20,000
Doctors for Disaster Preparedness  $10,000$10,000
Energy Policy Network  $200,000$200,000
Hispanic Leadership Fund  $7,500$7,500
National Black Chamber of Commerce  $15,000$15,000
Taxpayers Protection Alliance  $7,500$7,500
The 60 Plus Association  $37,500$37,500
The Buckeye Institute  $5,000$5,000
Grand Total$15,000$400,000$812,500$1,227,500

Koch Funding

According to Greenpeace, AEA and the Institute for Energy Research have received a combined total of at least $684,742 from Koch foundations between 1997 and 2017.

Greenpeace reports that IER and AEA have received funding from Koch for a $3.6 million anti-Obama gas price advertising campaign.29Institute for Energy Research (IER) & American Energy Alliance (AEA),” Greenpeace. Accessed May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/q1FqQ

According to Greenpeace, AEA received $1.5 million in 2012 funnelled through Freedom Partners, a 501(c)(6) business leaguue directed by many of the Koch brothers’ closest connections such as Richard Fink, Marc Short, Wayne Gable, and Kevin Gentry.30Institute for Energy Research (IER) & American Energy Alliance (AEA),” Greenpeace. Accessed May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/q1FqQ

990 Forms

Key People

Board of Directors

The following is compiled from publicly available 990 tax forms.

Name2008200920102011201220132014Position
Brian KennedyYY     Director
Dan Kish Y YYYYSenior Vice President, Policy
Dan Simmons   YYYYVice President, Policy
James Clarkson YYYYYYDirector
John Peterson  YYYYYDirector
Lisa WallaceYYYYYYYSecretary/Treasurer
Nancy Pfotenhauer      YDirector
Robert Bradley    YYYIER Executive Officer
Scott Alex Beaulier YYYYYYDirector
Thomas PyleYYYYYYYPresident
Wayne GableYYYYYYYChairman

Staff

Name201031Meet the Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived July 8, 2010. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/21XwX201132STAFF,”  American Energy Alliance. Archived May 18, 2011. Archive.is URL:https://archive.is/A1ZW6201233STAFF,” American Energy Alliance. Archived January 27, 2012. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/9Cp8z201334Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived July 27, 2013.201435Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived March 20, 2014.201536Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived February 2, 2015.201637Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived May 20, 2016.201738Staff,” American Energy Alliance. Archived February 17, 2017. Archive.is URL:https://archive.is/hzGKtPosition
Benjamin Cole  YYY   Director, Communications
Chris Warren    YYYYVice President,Communications
Dan Kish      Y Senior Vice President, Policy
Daniel R. SimmonsYYYYYYY Vice President, Policy
Doug Macgillivray      YYDirector of Federal Affairs
Dustin DeBerry YYYYYYYDirector, Donor Relations
Genevieve Thornton   YY   Director, Marketing
Hubbel Relat      Y Vice President for State Policy and General Counsel
Jeffrey Hubbard YY     Director, New Media
John Mavretich Y      Director, Communications
Kevin KennedyY       Director, Federal Affairs
Kris Daniel      Y Director, Development
Laura HendersonY       Spokesperson
Lisa Wallace YYYYYYYSecretary/Treasurer
Mike Morrison    YYY Director, Digital Media
Robin Millican   Y    Director, Federal Affairs
Thomas J. PyleYYYYYYYYPresident
Travis Fisher      Y Economist

Actions

May 2020

AEA hosted a watch party for Michael Moore’s documentary Planet of the Humans and, as reported by Heated, spent thousands of dollars to promote it to millions of people.39Emily Atkin. “A party for the planet(’s destruction),” Heated, May 19, 2020. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

“It turns out the green energy movement is not so ‘green’ after all,” one of the AEA Facebook advertisements reads. “Join our ‘Planet of the Humans’ Watch Party to learn more.”40Emily Atkin. “A party for the planet(’s destruction),” Heated, May 19, 2020. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

According to Heated, after reviewing the Facebook Ad Library, AEA spent somewhere between ten and thirteen thousand dollars over four days to promote six ads about the party.41Emily Atkin. “A party for the planet(’s destruction),” Heated, May 19, 2020. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

Planet of the Humans was eventually removed from YouTube over copyright claims. Climate experts had previously called the film “dangerous, misleading and destructive” and asked it be taken down.42Jonathan Watts. “Michael Moore film Planet of the Humans removed from YouTube,” The Guardian, May 25, 2020. Archived June 1, 2020. Archive URLhttps://archive.vn/zQLyu 43Oilver Milman. “Climate experts call for ‘dangerous’ Michael Moore film to be taken down,” The Guardian, April 28, 2020. Archived June 1, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.vn/0Ia0D

Planet of the Humans has been described as a “gift to Big Oil” that is “riddled with errors about clean energy and climate activism”44Leah C. Stokes. “Michael Moore produced a film about climate change that’s a gift to Big Oil,” Vox, April 28, 2020. Archived May 29, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.vn/NgJeE while numerous sources have described its facts as “misleading” and “way out of date.”45Dan Gearino. “Inside Clean Energy: 6 Things Michael Moore’s ‘Planet of the Humans’ Gets Wrong,” Inside Climate News, April 30, 2020. Archived June 1, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.vn/CeEY0

April 6, 2020

AEA sent an open letter to President Donald Trump supporting the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles
Rule which would scrap federal fuel economy mandates under the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program.46CAFE-Coaliton-to-Trump-April-2020-9 (PDF), American Energy Alliance.

Describing CAFE, the letter contends: “Those families and individuals who prefer or need trucks, SUVs, and crossovers pay more to subsidize those who buy smaller vehicles or electric vehicles under the existing mandate. This significant, needless, and unjust cost is a very real regressive tax on American families that has made our country worse off.”47CAFE-Coaliton-to-Trump-April-2020-9 (PDF), American Energy Alliance.

Signatories were listed as follows:

NameOrganization
Thomas J. PyleAmerican Energy Alliance
Bethany MarcumAlaska Policy Forum
Lisa B. NelsonAmerican Legislative Exchange Council
Michael BowmanALEC Action
Phil KerpenAmerican Commitment
Rick ManningAmericans for Limited Government
Brent Wm. GardnerAmericans for Prosperity
Grover NorquistAmericans for Tax Reform
Jim WatersBluegrass Institute
David T. StevensonCaesar Rodney Institute
Norman SingletonCampaign for Liberty
Matthew KandrachConsumer Action for a Strong Economy
Ryan EllisCenter for a Free Economy
Andrew F. QuinlanCenter for Freedom and Prosperity
Jeffrey MazzellaCenter for Individual Freedom
Isaac OrrCenter of the American Experiment
Leo KnepperCitizens Alliance of Pennsylvania
Chip FordCitizens for Limited Taxation
Mark MathisClear Energy Alliance
Craig RuckerCommittee for a Constructive Tomorrow
Myron EbellCompetitive Enterprise Institute
Craig RichardsonE&E Legal Institute
Robert RoperEthan Allen Institute
Timothy HeadFaith & Freedom Coalition
Annette MeeksFreedom Foundation of Minnesota
Adam BrandonFreedomWorks
George LandrithFrontiers of Freedom
James TaylorHeartland Institute
Jessica AndersonHeritage Action for America
Mario H. LopezHispanic Leadership Fund
Fred BirnbaumIdaho Freedom Foundation
Andrew LangerInstitute for Liberty
Vinnie VernuccioInstitute for the American Worker
Donald van der VaartJohn Locke Foundation
Hector BarretoThe Latino Coalition
Seton MotleyLess Government
Jason IsaacLife:Powered
Brett HealyMacIver Institute for Public Policy
Jason HayesMackinac Center for Public Policy
Christopher B. SummersMaryland Public Policy Institute
Laurie BelsitoMassachusetts Fiscal Alliance
Harry AlfordNational Black Chamber of Commerce
Jonathan SmallOklahoma Council of Public Affairs
Joshua H. CrawfordPegasus Institute
Daniel ErspamerPelican Institute
Horace CooperProject 21
Derrick HollieReaching America
Mike StenhouseRhode Island Center for Freedom & Prosperity
Paul J. GessingRio Grande Foundation
David WilliamsTaxpayers Protection Alliance
Kevin RobertsTexas Public Policy Foundation
Todd MyersWashington Policy Center

March 5, 2020

AEA announced a new campaign to fight against the electric vehicle (EV) tax credit. The series of digital ads urged senators to “block proposed amendments to the American Energy Innovation Act that would expand the unnecessary, inefficient, costly and unfair electric vehicle (EV) tax credit.”48AEA Launches Initiative to Stop Special Interest Tax Giveaways,” American Energy Alliance, March 5, 2020. Archived March 9, 2020. Archive.ph URL: https://archive.vn/O2Soq

AEA President Thomas Pyle issued a statement:49AEA Launches Initiative to Stop Special Interest Tax Giveaways,” American Energy Alliance, March 5, 2020. Archived March 9, 2020. Archive.ph URL: https://archive.vn/O2Soq

“Some Senate Democrats are once again focused on expanding the EV tax credit despite its gross inequities. They are using the American Energy Innovation Act as a tool to enrich two auto companies, GM and Tesla, along with wealthy coastal elites, mainly from California and New York. It’s now time for all Senators, especially Republicans, to stand up for their constituents and stop this obvious handout. No amendments, no deals, and no extensions of the tax credit.”

December 17, 2019

AEA released a statement from Tom Pyle praising President Trump50Jon Haubert. “President Trump Holds the Line: Protects Middle Class Taxpayers from the Green New Deal,” AmericanEnergyAlliance.org, December 17, 2019. Archived January 1, 2020. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/bIlkn after he pressured lawmakers to eliminate electric vehicle and solar tax credits from a must-pass spending package:51Ari Netter. “Trump Helped Nix Electric Car Tax Measure Sought by Tesla, GM,” Bloomberg.com, December 16, 2019. Archived January 7, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/wip/DQq90

After a marathon political showdown,” Pyle wrote, “President Trump’s opposition to green subsidies has won the day. Credit is something you earn, not give away. Refusing to expand the costly, unnecessary, and unfair electric vehicle tax credit, the solar investment tax credit, and other green giveaways, is a major win for middle class American taxpayers. […] President Trump stuck to his guns against a Congress hell-bent on saddling the cost of the Green New Deal on middle class American taxpayers.”52Jon Haubert. “President Trump Holds the Line: Protects Middle Class Taxpayers from the Green New Deal,” AmericanEnergyAlliance.org, December 17, 2019. Archived January 1, 2020. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/bIlkn 53Ari Netter. “Trump Helped Nix Electric Car Tax Measure Sought by Tesla, GM,” Bloomberg.com, December 16, 2019. Archived January 7, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/wip/DQq90

Pyle also expressed frustration that the federal wind production tax credit would be extended:54Jon Haubert. “President Trump Holds the Line: Protects Middle Class Taxpayers from the Green New Deal,” AmericanEnergyAlliance.org, December 17, 2019. Archived January 1, 2020. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/bIlkn

Big Wind succeeded in securing themselves another taxpayer-funded, billion-dollar windfall, proving once again they are afraid to compete on a level playing field. You can bet they are already gearing up to take another run at picking our pockets again next year, but they won’t do so without a fight from AEA. You can take that to the bank.”55Jon Haubert. “President Trump Holds the Line: Protects Middle Class Taxpayers from the Green New Deal,” AmericanEnergyAlliance.org, December 17, 2019. Archived January 1, 2020. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/bIlkn

November 20, 2019

The AEA purchased a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal calling on the Republican-led Senate to “protect consumers and taxpayers by eliminating the electric vehicle tax credit once and for all.” 56Jon Haubert. “AEA Launches Initiative Calling on Republican Senators to End Welfare for Auto Manufacturers and Wealthy Coastal Elites,” American Energy Alliance, November 20, 2019. Archived December 9, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/TKwK3

The ad described the EV tax credit as a subsidy for “wealthy coastal elites,” 50% of whom reside in California.57Jon Haubert. “AEA Launches Initiative Calling on Republican Senators to End Welfare for Auto Manufacturers and Wealthy Coastal Elites,” American Energy Alliance, November 20, 2019. Archived December 9, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/TKwK3

AEA President Thomas Pyle justified the ad with a statement on AEA’s website:58Jon Haubert. “AEA Launches Initiative Calling on Republican Senators to End Welfare for Auto Manufacturers and Wealthy Coastal Elites,” American Energy Alliance, November 20, 2019. Archived December 9, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/TKwK3

House Democrats have made expanding the electric vehicle subsidy a top priority before Congress wraps up for the year. This move would essentially enrich two auto companies, GM and Tesla, along with wealthy coastal elites, mainly from California and New York. It’s now up to the Republicans in the U.S. Senate to stop the madness. No deals, no extensions. Majority Leader McConnell and his Senate GOP colleagues must protect consumers and taxpayers by eliminating the electric vehicle tax credit once and for all. At the very least, they must block the proposed expansion of this welfare program for the wealthy.”59Jon Haubert. “AEA Launches Initiative Calling on Republican Senators to End Welfare for Auto Manufacturers and Wealthy Coastal Elites,” American Energy Alliance, November 20, 2019. Archived December 9, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/TKwK3

October 15, 2019

AEA promoted a recent poll, claiming it revealed a strong voter rejection of electric vehicle purchase incentives.60John Haubert. “Voters to Congress: Make U-Turn on Special Vehicle Preferences,” American Energy Alliance, October 15, 2019. Archived October 17, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/fULJA

The poll, conducted by AEA in Maine, Michigan, and South Dakota, asked likely voters “how much they would be willing to pay each year to support the purchase of electric vehicles by other consumers.”61John Haubert. “Voters to Congress: Make U-Turn on Special Vehicle Preferences,” American Energy Alliance, October 15, 2019. Archived October 17, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/fULJA

Some of the statements respondents were asked to agree or disagree with included: 

I usually trust the federal government to make the right decisions.” 

The citizens of the State of Michigan should not help pay for those who buy electric vehicles in California.”

Consumers should pay for their own cars and not rely on tax credits paid for by other consumers.”62John Haubert. “Voters to Congress: Make U-Turn on Special Vehicle Preferences,” American Energy Alliance, October 15, 2019. Archived October 17, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/fULJA

There were no questions relating to climate change, energy policy, or whether respondents would be interested in purchasing an electric vehicle themselves.63John Haubert. “Voters to Congress: Make U-Turn on Special Vehicle Preferences,” American Energy Alliance, October 15, 2019. Archived October 17, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/fULJA

The report’s authors concluded:

Voters’ sentiments about paying for other’s electric vehicles are especially sharp when they learn they that those who purchase electric vehicles are, for the most, wealthy and/or from California.”64John Haubert. “Voters to Congress: Make U-Turn on Special Vehicle Preferences,” American Energy Alliance, October 15, 2019. Archived October 17, 2019. Archive.is URL: http://archive.is/fULJA

May 9, 2019

The American Energy Alliance organized open letter fighting against an electric vehicle tax credit.65Dear Senator Grassley, Senator Wyden, Representative Neal and Representative Brady:” May 9, 2019. Retrieved from The Daily Caller.

The American Energy Alliance has organized a coalition to proclaim in one unified voice that there should be no expansion of the misguided electric vehicle tax credit,” Pyle wrote in a statement, quoted at The Daily CallerThere is no question that the electric vehicle tax credit distorts the auto market to no gain.”66Christ White. “CONSERVATIVES WARN LAWMAKERSTESLA’S TAX CREDITS ‘OVERWHELMINGLY BENEFIT THE RICH,”The Daily Caller, May 9, 2019. Archived May 9, 2019. Archive.fo URLhttps://archive.fo/qzvF3

According to Pyle and others who signed the letter, Electric vehicle tax credits “overwhelmingly benefit the rich.” DeSmog’s Koch vs. Clean project has systematically debunked this, among other well-rehearsed talking points and misinformation put forward by industry about electric vehicles.67Christ White. “CONSERVATIVES WARN LAWMAKERSTESLA’S TAX CREDITS ‘OVERWHELMINGLY BENEFIT THE RICH,”The Daily Caller, May 9, 2019. Archived May 9, 2019. Archive.fo URLhttps://archive.fo/qzvF3

The letter cites research by the Pacific Research Institute (PRI), a group that has received over $600,000 from ExxonMobil and millions from “dark money” groups DonorsTrust and Donors Capital Fund

July 18, 2018

The American Energy Alliance, represented by Tom Pyle, was among signatories of a letter supporting an anti-carbon tax resolution from House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Rep. David McKinley (R-W.Va.6841 Conservative Groups Support Scalise/McKinley Anti-Carbon Tax Resolution,” Americans for Tax Reform, July 18, 2018. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

“We oppose any carbon tax. We oppose a carbon tax because it would lead to less income and fewer jobs for American families,” the letter read. “We support the House Concurrent Resolution in opposition to a job-killing carbon tax and urge members to co-sponsor and support this effort.” 6941 Conservative Groups Support Scalise/McKinley Anti-Carbon Tax Resolution,” Americans for Tax Reform, July 18, 2018. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

The resolution would call a carbon tax “detrimental to the United States economy.”E&E News reported it was similar to a measure that passed the House in 2016. Rep. Carlos Curbelo of Florida, co-chairman of the Climate Solutions Caucus, said he would not vote for the resolution.70Nick Sobczyk. “House voting on anti-carbon-tax measure: ‘Pass the popcorn’,” E&E News, July 16, 2018. Archived Aug 2, 2018. Archive.is URL: https://archive.fo/aTP8h

“Protecting our environment and economic growth are not mutually exclusive,” he said in a statement. “The resolution presents a false choice.”

June 2018

The American Energy Alliance released the results of a poll asking voter’s opinions on electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel efficiency standards.71New Survey: Voters (Still) Find Vehicle Subsidies ‘Unfair’,” American Energy Alliance, June 19, 2018. Archived June 21, 2018. Archive.is URL: https://archive.li/Kw2YF DeSmog, after reviewing the actual poll questions,72MWR Strategies” (PDF), June 2018. Retrieved from AmericanEnergyAlliance.org. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. reported the poll73Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018. was an example of a “push poll,” defined by the American Association for Public Opinion Research as “a form of negative campaigning that is disguised as a political poll.”74What is a ‘Push’ Poll?AAPORArchived June 21, 2018. Archive.is URL: https://archive.li/fIaYW

“Voters want to make their own decisions about what kind of cars and trucks to buy. And they definitely don’t want to pay for the toys of the rich,” the American Energy Alliance said was the takeaway from the results.75John Siciliano. “Most voters don’t like electric cars because of the subsidies, says new poll,” Washington Examiner, June 19, 2018. Archived June 21, 2018. Archive.is URL: https://archive.li/32S7u

The poll was conducted by MWR Strategies, a lobbying firm whose clients have included Koch Industries and the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers. The questions implant the idea that consumers are being pushed to buy certain vehicles and that taxpayers are being forced to pay for the federal programs that support EV sales.76Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018.

For example, one question states that every purchaser of an electric vehicle is paid “75 hundred dollars” by the “taxpayer,” which misrepresents the mechanics of the non-refundable electric vehicle tax credit. The tax credit simply lowers the buyer’s tax rate in the year of purchase — functionally the same way that a home mortgage interest deduction or child tax credit works.77Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018.

Another question claims that the average income of an electric car buyer is $150,000, and then asks whether the respondent thinks it’s “fair” that the buyer should “be paid 75 hundred dollars.” As of 2016, 54 percent of EV purchasers have a household income above $100,000, not $150,000. Also not noted, nearly 80 percent of EVs are leased rather than purchased, and only 38 percent of leases have a household income above $100,000.78Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018.

Below is a sample of one split sample question, where the interviewer uses to different wordings to ask the same question:79Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018.

The first question, set up to make respondents feel a direct personal sacrifice, 29 percent answered that this was “way too much” and 25 percent said it was “about right.” The second question, framed without the direct emotional connection, the percentage of respondents that said it was “about right” rose slightly to 27 percent, and those who said it was “way too much” dropped to 19 percent. Both wordings were misleading, considering a tax credit is not a payment from the government and not all buyers of EVs get the full value of the tax credit.80Poll by Former Koch Lobbyist Skews Public Support for Clean Cars, Electric Vehicles,” DeSmog, June 20, 2018.

April 23, 2018

The AEA, represented by Thomas Pyle, was among 22 groups signed on to an open letter asking President Trump to ignore recent criticism of EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt.81“Coalition letter to the President on Scott Pruitt,” (PDF) Heartland Institute. Archived .pdf on file with DeSmog.

In a speech to the U.S. Senate, a group of Democratic senators identified the organizations as front groups for the Koch Brothers and other wealthy donors, nicknamed the “Web of Deceit.” The senators outlined how, in addition to funding from the Koch network, many of the groups use untraceable “dark money” funneled through groups like Donors Capital Fund and Donors Trust to influence legislation, particularly with regards to climate and pollution.

Senator Whitehouse outlined it as “a web of deceit conceived and bankrolled by the Koch brothers and other self-interested billionaires to advocate for very selfish and unpatriotic policies.” Whitehouse added: “This web of deceit has infiltrated and populated the Trump administration, and it is swamping the interests of everyday Americans.82Senator Whitehouse. “Time to wake up: Web of Deceit” April 23, 2018. Archive.is URLhttps://archive.li/HzIsa

The full list of pro-Pruitt signatories and their respective organizations is as follows:

May 8, 2017

The American Energy Alliance, represented by Thomas J. Pyle is listed on an open letter to President Donald J. Trump urging him “to withdraw fully from the Paris Climate Treaty and to stop all taxpayer funding of UN global warming programs.”83“Dear Mr. President” (PDF), retrieved from Competitive Enterprise Institute. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

DeSmog reported that the 40 groups represented in the letter, including the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), The Heartland Institute, and the Heritage Foundation, have received a combined total of millions of dollars from the Koch Brothers, ExxonMobil, and other industry groups.84Graham Readfearn. “Conservative Groups Pushing Trump To Exit Paris Climate Deal Have Taken Millions From Koch Brothers, Exxon,” DeSmog, May 10, 2017.

Analysis also showed that the groups accepted about $80 million through Donors Capital Fund and Donors Trust, two groups that have been confirmed is a key financial source for key U.S-based climate change denial groups.85Susanne Goldberg. “Conservative groups spend up to bn a year to fight action on climate change,” The Guardian, December 20, 2013. Archived May 12, 2017. Archive.is URLhttps://archive.is/TB2yy

January 12, 2017

The AEA‘s Thomas Pyle was a signatory to a January 12, 2017 official letter of support (PDF) for Scott Pruitt, in which numerous groups, including The Heartland Institute, and others, declared that the Senate should “swiftly approve his nomination” for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

 Other signatories of the letter included:86“Dear Senators,” (PDF)Competitive Enterprise Institute, January 12, 2017. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

December 2016

Thomas Pyle was chosen to head Donald Trump’s energy transition team after Mike McKenna stepped down from the position.87Julian Spector. “Trump Energy Team Swaps Out Its Transition Team Leader,” Green Tech Media, December 1, 2016.  Archived December 7, 2016. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/uDcE5

Shortly before his appointment, Pyle had sent a a memo (see full .pdf)obtained and published by the Center for Media and Democracy—to a private email list outlining “The Trump Administration’s Energy Plan.” Pyle’s memo, featuring a banner with both the American Energy Alliance (AEA) and Institute for Energy Research (IER) logos included 14 policy proposals such as:88Pyle-What-to-Expect-From-the-Trump-Administration.pdfFrom the Desk of Thomas Pyle. Retrieved from Documentcloud.org. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog. 89Nick Surgey. “REVEALEDTHE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S ENERGY PLAN,” The Center for Media and Democracy, December 4, 2016. Archive.is URL: https://archive.is/R9rzX 90Ben Jervey. “Trump Energy Agenda Revealed in Thomas Pyle Memo,” DeSmog, December 7, 2016.

  • Withdrawing from the 2015 Paris Climate agreement;
  • Increasing federal oil and natural gas leasing;
  • Lifting the coal lease moratorium;
  • Eliminating the Clean Power Plan;
  • Expediting approvals of LNG export terminals;
  • Moving forward with pipeline projects including the Keystone XL and Dakota Access Pipeline;
  • Rolling back federal fuel economy standards;
  • Ending the use of the social cost of carbon in agency rulemaking; and
  • Reconsidering the “endangerment finding” that found greenhouse gases to be a threat to public health and welfare.

June 13, 2016

The Center for Media and Democracy (CMD/PRWatch) reports the American Energy Alliance (AEA)  was named as a creditor in Peabody Energy’s recent bankruptcy filings.91Nick Surgey. “Peabody Coal Bankruptcy Reveals Climate Denial Network Funding,” PRWatch, June 13, 2016. Archived June 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/a73wj

While the available bankruptcy documents do not list the scale or dates of funding, they outline Peabody Energy’s financial ties to a large network of groups promoting climate change denial.92In re: Peabody Energy Corporation, et al. Debtors,” United States Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of Missouri Eastern Division,  Case 16-42529, May 27, 2016. Retrieved from DocumentCloud.

Prominent individuals appearing in the documents include climate deniers Willie SoonRichard LindzenRoy Spencer and Richard Berman. The long list of organizations also includes groups such as Americans for ProsperityAmerican Legislative Exchange CouncilCFACTInstitute for Energy ResearchState Policy Network, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and dozens more.93Farron Cousins. “Court Documents Show Coal Giant Peabody Energy Funded Dozens Of Climate Denial Groups,” DeSmog, June 13, 2016.

The Guardian also analysed and reported on the Peabody bankruptcy findings94Suzanne Goldenberg and Helena Bengtsson. “Biggest US coal company funded dozens of groups questioning climate change,” The Guardian, June 13, 2016. Archived June 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/pw7On

These groups collectively are the heart and soul of climate denial,” said Kert Davies, founder of the Climate Investigation Center, who has spent 20 years tracking funding for climate denial. “It’s the broadest list I have seen of one company funding so many nodes in the denial machine.”

The company’s filings reveal funding for a range of organisations which have fought Barack Obama’s plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions, and denied the very existence of climate change. […]

Among Peabody’s beneficiaries, the Center for the Study of Carbon Dioxide and Global Change has insisted – wrongly – that carbon emissions are not a threat but “the elixir of life” while the American Legislative Exchange Council is trying to overturn Environmental Protection Agency rules cutting emissions from power plants. Meanwhile, Americans for Prosperity campaigns against carbon pricing. The Oklahoma chapter was on the list. […]

The breadth of the groups with financial ties to Peabody is extraordinary. Thinktanks, litigation groups, climate scientists, political organisations, dozens of organisations blocking action on climate all receiving funding from the coal industry,” said Nick Surgey, director of research for the Center for Media and Democracy.

We expected to see some denial money, but it looks like Peabody is the treasury for a very substantial part of the climate denial movement.”

Notable organizations listed in the initial documents include:

Notable individuals named in the initial documents include the following:

May 2016

The American Energy Alliance is part of a coalition of 60 conservative organizations led by Americans for Prosperity claiming that the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ozone rule will cost jobs and hurt the U.S. economy.95Asha Glover. “AFP-Led Coalition Says EPA Ozone Regulation Will Kill Economy,” Morning Consult, May 9, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/CyQMl

The only way EPA could justify the regulation was to use questionable cobenefits,” a letter addressed to House Energy and Commerce Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.) and Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman James Inhofe (R-Okla.) read. “In reducing ozone, there may also be benefits from reductions of other pollutants, in this case particulate matter (PM). However, the EPA already has another set of regulations dealing exclusively with PM. Either the EPA has woefully inadequate standards for PM or it is effectively ‘double counting’ the health benefits of PM reductions to justify the ozone regulation.”96Asha Glover. “AFP-Led Coalition Says EPA Ozone Regulation Will Kill Economy,” Morning Consult, May 9, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/CyQMl

April 2016

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) reports that the American Energy Alliance is one of several Koch-funded groups including the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and the State Policy Network (SPN) working to “stymie the Clean Power Plan,” President Obama’s signature effort to cut carbon pollution from power plants.97Aliya Haq. “Koch Brothers Struggling to Block Climate Action in State Legislatures,” NRDC, May 3, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/x5tFd

In April, 2016, the American Energy Alliance itself declared that it was behind the push in state legislatures in the US to bar funding for work on the Obama administration’s Clean Power Plan.98Elizabeth Harball. “CLEAN POWER PLAN:Conservative groups claim responsibility for state budget restrictions,” E&E Publishing, April 28, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/iSLmN

“The point of these riders is to restrict the agency from putting time and attention into this regulation,” said Hubbel Relat, vice president for state policy and general counsel for AEA. “These budget riders exist in the first place because the governors insist on moving forward on a regulation that is held up in litigation and the Supreme Court has questioned its legality.”99Elizabeth Harball. “CLEAN POWER PLAN:Conservative groups claim responsibility for state budget restrictions,” E&E Publishing, April 28, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/iSLmN

September 1, 2015

American Energy Alliance President Thomas Pyle issued a statement criticizing Michigan’s Governor Richard Dale Snyder for his plan to implement EPA carbon regulations:100Gov. Snyder Surrenders to Obama’s EPA,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), September 1, 2015. Archived May 21, 2015. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/tjntJ

The Snyder administration’s decision to wave the white flag and implement EPA’s carbon regulation is bad news for Michigan families. The governor claims this approach ‘retains control’ for Michigan, yet the opposite is true. Implementing this regulation, when serious legal challenges persist, effectively hands over the keys to Michigan’s energy future to unelected bureaucrats in Washington. Once Gov. Snyder signs away Michigan’s control over its energy future to Obama’s EPA, there is no turning back.

Obama and EPA want states to think their only choices are to submit a state plan or have a federal plan imposed on them. Gov. Snyder has apparently fallen for this false choice. The real choice is between shielding Michigan from this harmful carbon regulation or helping President Obama carry it across the finish line as the sun sets on his presidency.

Obama’s carbon regulation is a national energy tax that will burden Michiganders, especially the poor, with higher energy prices and fewer jobs, yet will have no impact on climate change. Michigan voters made clear their stance on higher energy taxes when they overwhelmingly rejected Governor Snyder’s gas tax proposal earlier this year. The governor should listen to the citizens in his state and join the ranks of several of his fellow governors by rejecting the Obama administration’s carbon regulation.”101Gov. Snyder Surrenders to Obama’s EPA,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), September 1, 2015. Archived May 21, 2015. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/tjntJ

August 6, 2015

AEA President Thomas Pyle published an article in Medium responding to a previous post by EPA Chief Gina McCarthy “with his own six reasons as to why states and the American people should be wary of entrusting EPA with their energy futures.”102Six Things Every American Should Really Know About EPA’s Carbon Agenda,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), July 12, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/LllJS

Pyle contends in his article that the EPA‘s power plan, which he entitles a “carbon agenda” will have “no impact on climate change,” will “[hurt] Americans’ health,” “relies on threats and bribes,” and “was written by the environmental lobby,” among other criticisms.103Tom Pyle. “Six Things Every American Should Really Know About EPA’s Carbon Agenda,” Medium, August 6, 2015. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/v8Drs

August 3, 2015

AEA President Thomas Pyle issued the following statement criticizing President Obama’s Clean Power Plan:104(Press Release). “Obama’s Carbon Rule Still a Bad Deal for Americans,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), July 3, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/2mFW7

“The final version of President Obama’s ‘Clean Power Plan’ is somehow more harmful than the proposed rule. It forces states to make even steeper cuts, it guts natural gas in favor of costly renewables, and it still has no effect on climate change. While the EPA touts these adjustments to the rule as a sign of ‘flexibility’, it’s really an admission that Obama needs states to do his dirty work. But state leaders shouldn’t give in to the administration’s bribery schemes. Regardless of these cosmetic changes to the rule, the fundamental flaws remain.

It’s important to remember that President Obama’s carbon regulation, the crown jewel of his climate legacy, has no impact on climate change. EPA’s own models show that their carbon rule will limit global temperature rise by a mere 0.018 degrees Celsius by 2100. That’s a bad deal for the American people. State leaders should protect their citizens from Obama’s costly carbon rule by refusing to submit a plan.”

July 30, 2015

The American Energy Alliance launched a new initiative at SmartPowerPlan.org, which it describes as “a hub for the latest information on how states and the public are fighting back against the EPA’s so-called Clean Power Plan.” AEA calls it a “one-stop shop” for “the latest news, legal analysis, public comments, and state action against the EPA’s carbon rule.”105Mounting Opposition to EPA’s Carbon Rule,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), July 30, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/4ysOl

According to WHOIS archives, the American Energy Alliance registered the website smartpowerplan.org on May 12, 2015.106Whois Record for SmartPowerPlan.org, whois.domaintools.com. Archived .pdf on file at DeSmog.

According to their website, the Smart Power Plan consists of three principles that “that should guide both elected officials and regulators when composing energy policy”:107About this Effort,” Smart Power Plan. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/07KHU

“1. Make Americans’ Lives Better Not Harder: We support individuals picking the most reliable, abundant, and affordable energy sources free from government interference. Natural gas, oil, and coal, which account for two-thirds of our electricity, enrich our lives and allow families to spend more of their hard-earned income on health care, housing, education, and their pursuit of happiness. We embrace individual choice over government mandates.

“2. Base Policy Decisions on Science and Common Sense: Any public policy that creates new burdens on individuals and families should be subject to rigorous scrutiny that measures the full range of costs and benefits. Unfortunately, the EPA’s Carbon rule fails this basic test. The claimed benefits used to justify the rule are based on dubious science, while the huge costs will diminish Americans’ health, wealth, and environment.

“3. Hold Our Elected Officials Accountable: Our foremost concern is that states, individuals, and markets drive U.S. energy policy. Increasingly, regulators at federal agencies like the EPA have co-opted the decision-making power and circumvented the legislative process. We need binding action from our elected officials to preserve the authority of states over any significant energy tax hikes and new mandates on their states’ residents.”

February 2015

The AEA began publishing articles linking back to an “initiative” titled “Divestment Truth” (#DivestmentTruth). AEA argues that a “morally bankrupt movement is trying to keep billions of people in poverty, deny people access to energy, and forbid access to the lifesaving products that come from coal, natural gas, and oil […]” and asks readers to “Help us fight against this misguided movement, and take back the reliable, affordable energy that drives America forward.”108Divestment Truth: What is Fossil Fuel Divestment? American Energy Alliance. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/HrFim

Publications filed under Divestment Truth include a June, 2015 op-ed in Forbes by Institute for Energy Research Founder and CEO Robert Bradley Jr. titled “Fossil Fuel Divestment: Flight From Reality.” According to Bradley, “Divestment is a solution looking for a problem. It is destined to fail […].”109Opinion: Fossil Fuel Divestment: Flight From Reality,” American Energy Alliance, June 16, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/RShpi

AEA also published a political cartoon depicting a “fossil fuel divestment protestor” with and without fossil fuels which was also shared on social media.110No shirt, no shoes, no fossil fuels,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), February 13, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/lGfRq

According to AEA, “The fossil fuel divestment movement […] has it backwards. The morally superior choice is for people to be free to use energy to make their lives better. Today, that means having access to the abundant energy resources of coal, oil, and natural gas. Those are the technologies that lifted the developed world out of poverty, and they continue to lift millions out of poverty while they power the high-energy lives of those of us fortunate enough to live in the developed world.”111What is the Fossil Fuel Divestment Movement?American Energy Alliance, February 5, 2016. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/JDkmB

November 4, 2015

AEA released “10 Reasons to Oppose a Carbon Tax” on its Energy Townhall publication. According to AEA, “A carbon tax would impose an indirect tax on [natural gas, oil, and coal] due to their carbon dioxide emissions.” They list the following “ten reasons” they believe a carbon tax should be opposed112:“10 Reasons to Oppose a Carbon Tax,” Energy Townhall (AEA Publication), November 4, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/e7yIU

“1). It is a tax on transportation fuels like gasoline and most forms of electricity
2). It will increase the cost of goods and services 
3). It disproportionately hurts low income communities and seniors
4). It damages American economic competitiveness
5). It may increase air pollution
6). It does not impact climate change
7). It is not a market-driven solution
8). It is a tool for politicians to continue wasteful government spending
9). It is not ‘revenue-neutral’
10). The American public is opposed to it”

November 21, 2014

AEA President Thomas Pyle published an op-ed in the Las Vegas Review-Journal titled “It’s time for wind tax credit to get blown away.” Some excepts below:113ICYMI: It’s Time for the Wind PTC to Blow Away,” Energy Townhall, November 21, 2014. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/e7yIU

“One of the central building blocks of the EPA’s power plant rule is increased use of wind and solar for electricity generation. But wind and solar are uncompetitive without massive taxpayer subsidies and mandated renewable portfolio standards. For wind, that takes the form of the production tax credit. […]

“Congress should reject any attempt by [Senate Majority Leader Harry] Reid to revive the wind production tax credit in the lame-duck session. It’s clearly a bad deal for Nevadans, enriching out-of-state billionaires at the expense of working families.”

September 2014

The American Energy Alliance wrote a coalition letter, signed by 20 organizations, to congress claiming widespread support for “The PTC Elimination Act”, which would cut subsidies for wind energy production, Huffington Post reports.114Gabe Elsner. “American Energy Alliance Leads Front Group Attack on Wind PTC,” Huffington Post, September 3, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/LC1ML

The Energy and Policy Institute examined the signatories list and found that 18 of the signatories had signed a similar letter for the Koch-funded Americans for Prosperity in June of 201, and that 14 have ties to fossil fuel funders, and 18 have ties to the Koch Brothers’ political network.115Gabe Elsner. “American Energy Alliance Leads Front Group Attack on Wind PTC,” Huffington Post, September 3, 2015. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/LC1ML

May 2014

The American Energy Alliance spent over $400,000 on television ads attacking Senator Mark Udall and accusing him of opposing construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. Video below.116Laura Barron-Lopez. “Ad targets Sen. Udall as anti-Keystone pipeline,” The Hill, May 14, 2014. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/yV7V5

“The simple truth: Americans needs jobs,” the narrator reads. “And the Keystone pipeline will create thousands of high-paying jobs.”

“Sen. Mark Udall is siding with Washington lobbyists and special interests to kill it,” the ad states.

March 2012

The American Energy Alliance launched a $3.6 million ad campaign criticizing President Barack Obama on gasoline prices, and criticizes his decision on the Keystone XL Pipeline, Politico reports.117Kochs linked to anti-Obama gas ads,” Politico, March 29, 2012. Archived May 20, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/aMh7J

Politico notes that both the American Energy Alliance and IER are partly funded by the Koch brothers and their donor network. Democratic National Committee spokesman Brad Woodhouse accused the Koch brothers of “funding yet another shadowy outside group to defend the interests of Big Oil and protect their own tax breaks and profits with Mitt Romney being the ultimate beneficiary.”

Video from the AEI ad campaign below:

August 2009

The American Energy Alliance set off on a nation-wide campaign “to smear President Barack Obama’s clean energy reform agenda,” reported Thinkprogress. AEA staff rode in the “America Energy Express” bus, claiming that the American Clean Energy and Security act will “cripple our sluggish economy.”118Brad Johnson. “GOP Team At American Energy Alliance Runs ‘Energy Town Hall’ Oil Bus Tour,ThinkProgress, August 22, 2009. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/5zmlW

September, 2008

The American Energy Alliance funded pro-drilling radio ads in Colorado, including one criticizing Colorado Democratic Senate candidate Mark Udall, NPR reports.119Will Evans. “New Group Tied To Oil Industry Runs Ads Promoting Drilling, Attacking Democrat,” NPR, September 22, 2008. Archived May 21, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/cRZqN

American Energy Alliance Contact & Location

As of May, 2016, the American Energy Alliance listed the following contact information on their website:120Contact,” American Energy Alliance. Archived May 22, 2016. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/3Vfcx

American Energy Alliance
1155 15th Street NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20005

Phone:  202.621.2940
Fax: 202.741.9170
Email:  [email protected]

Media Contact: Christopher Warren | 202.621.2947 | [email protected]

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