EnergyDeal – Trump Highlights Venezuela Oil Pact at Texas Port
EnergyDeal – President Donald Trump on Tuesday used a visit to the Port of Corpus Christi to promote a new oil agreement with Venezuela, describing it as part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic energy production and expand American exports.
The president addressed workers and local officials at the sprawling Texas facility, which plays a key role in moving crude oil and liquefied natural gas to global markets. He portrayed the port as a cornerstone of what he called a renewed era for American energy.
Focus on Domestic Energy Policy
Speaking to supporters, Trump said his administration moved quickly on energy policy upon taking office. He recalled declaring a national energy emergency on his first day and reversing restrictions on exports introduced under the previous administration.
According to Trump, U.S. oil output has increased significantly in recent months. He stated that production has risen by 600,000 barrels per day since his inauguration and added that natural gas output has reached record levels.
The president also pointed to fuel prices as an indicator of progress. Citing local prices in Corpus Christi, he said gasoline had fallen to under $2.30 per gallon, adding that he had seen even lower prices at nearby stations during his visit.
Venezuela Agreement Takes Center Stage
A major portion of the speech focused on a new arrangement involving Venezuelan crude. Gesturing toward a tanker docked nearby, Trump said it was carrying 360,000 barrels of oil from Venezuela.
He described the South American nation as a new partner in energy trade and outlined plans to refine Venezuelan crude in Texas before exporting finished products to international markets. The president said the deal would create economic benefits for both countries while reinforcing the United States’ role as a leading energy supplier.
Trump argued that refining the oil domestically would support American jobs and increase export capacity, particularly along the Gulf Coast.
Port Expansion and Federal Investment
Trump credited earlier federal funding decisions for the port’s growth. During his first term, he approved funds to deepen and modernize the ship channel, a move he said allowed larger vessels to access the facility and boosted export volumes.
Port of Corpus Christi asset management director Jesse Robinson described the occasion as historic, noting that federal infrastructure investments had enabled the port to better serve energy companies and international clients. He said the improvements helped strengthen supply chains and supported communities connected to the global energy market.
The Port of Corpus Christi has grown into one of the country’s most active energy gateways, handling large volumes of crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments each year.
Economic Impact and Tax Policy
The event also featured remarks from local residents and business owners. Kevin Rose, a Marine Corps veteran, said recent changes to tax policy had eased financial pressure on his family. He explained that the elimination of taxes on overtime pay allowed his family business to purchase new equipment, including a commercial refrigerator.
Rose added that the savings would also make it possible for his family to take a vacation with their children, underscoring how economic policies can affect household budgets.
Energy and Technology Growth
Beyond oil and gas, Trump linked energy supply to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and major technology firms. He said companies expanding data centers and AI infrastructure should generate their own electricity rather than rely on local power grids.
According to Trump, requiring large technology firms to build dedicated power plants would prevent strain on community resources and support long-term energy stability. He described such measures as necessary to maintain reliable service while accommodating industrial expansion.
The president’s remarks were also endorsed by Paul Perez, head of the National Border Patrol Council, who praised the administration’s broader record.
As the visit concluded, Trump reiterated that increased production, expanded refining capacity, and stronger export channels were central to his energy strategy. By combining domestic output with new international partnerships, he said, the United States could maintain a leading position in global energy markets.