Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Cruz Tries to Deflect Criticism on Biofuel Standard To Rubio


DES MOINES, Iowa -- Ted Cruz opened a new line of attack on rival Marco Rubio on Tuesday over a government-backed biofuel mandate, despite the Texas senator himself holding a position on the issue that is viewed critically by many Iowans.

The Renewable Fuel Standard is a government requirement passed by Congress in 2007 that forces the U.S. fuel supply to use a certain amount of biofuels, including ethanol. The law, because of its biofuel requirements, is considered a major boon to Iowa's economy. But Cruz, and other conservatives, suggests the law should be eliminated because it picks "winners and losers" in the energy market.

Rubio has expressed opposition to the RFS as well - but only after the law expires in 2022 to avoid a sudden, big economic hit on farmers. Ethanol backers in the state also understand Rubio will only support the elimination of the RFS if subsidies for other energy markets, including oil, are eliminated concurrently. 

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Source: NBC News

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