Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) has recently reignited debate over the Democrats’ aggressive push for electric vehicles (EVs), exposing significant flaws in the Biden administration’s green energy agenda. In a heated exchange with Joe Goffman, head of the EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation, Boebert illuminated why the drive towards battery-powered cars might be more harmful than helpful for the average American consumer.
Boebert’s critique focused sharply on the steep costs associated with EVs, which are increasingly becoming a burden for many families already struggling under economic strain. During her grilling of Goffman, Boebert highlighted a striking disparity between the cost of traditional gas-powered vehicles and their electric counterparts.
“What is the average price of a new combustion engine vehicle compared to a new electric vehicle?” Boebert asked. When Goffman admitted he didn’t have the precise figures, Boebert didn’t hesitate to provide the damning data: “The average price of a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle is about $45,600, whereas the average price of an electric vehicle is a staggering $61,800.”
The congresswoman further underscored the looming economic impact of the Biden administration’s proposed regulations, which would mandate that 67% of all new cars sold in the U.S. be electric by 2032. Boebert challenged the EPA official on the rising costs of EVs, stating, “Last year alone, the average price of an electric vehicle increased by 22%. It’s clear that the price is not dropping, and according to your own estimates, the technological costs could reach $280 billion, increasing manufacturing costs by $1,200 per vehicle.”
Boebert’s concerns extended beyond mere costs, delving into the practical issues of EV performance in harsh climates, which is particularly relevant in Colorado’s frigid winters. “Mr. Goffman, are you aware that in temperatures under 20 degrees Fahrenheit, electric vehicles lose nearly half of their charge? And in a state like Colorado, where we often see such temperatures, this presents a serious problem. How much does it cost to replace an EV battery?” she inquired, highlighting the lack of practical answers from the EPA.
Continuing her interrogation, Boebert painted a grim picture of the potential consequences of the administration’s regulatory zeal. “You’re effectively regulating an industry out of existence. In extreme cold, EV batteries can lose up to 41% of their performance. Replacing these batteries costs between $5,000 to $10,000. How do you expect hard-working families to absorb these additional costs?”
Her passionate questioning was not just a critique of the EPA’s policies but a call to address the real-world implications of forcing an unready technology onto American families. Boebert’s stance resonates with many who believe the current green agenda is both economically burdensome and impractical for average consumers.
The exchange underscores the growing tension between environmental policies and the economic realities faced by everyday Americans. As the Biden administration pushes forward with its green initiatives, Rep. Boebert’s pointed questions serve as a stark reminder of the need for more balanced and consumer-focused energy policies.
