A faction of House Republicans is making a strategic move to involve former President Donald Trump in a critical legislative battle concerning the future of offshore wind power. Led by Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.), the group is pushing for a bill that aims to expedite a variety of energy projects but has inadvertently sparked controversy among conservatives who view it as a potential boon for renewable energy sectors.

The bill, which could see a vote as early as next week, has received bipartisan support in committee stages but faces staunch opposition from some Republicans. Critics, including Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), argue that the legislation contradicts Trump’s policies which strongly oppose offshore wind projects. “Believe me, nobody hates wind turbines more than me — except the president of the United States,” stated Van Drew, emphasizing the need for reassurances about the bill's implications.

In an effort to influence the legislative process, Van Drew, along with Reps. Chris Smith (R-N.J.) and House Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris (R-Md.), penned a letter to Trump alerting him that the bill might undermine his administration's efforts to halt 'Green New Scam' projects. They expressed particular concern over amendments added during the bill's markup that could restrict the administration's ability to revoke already issued permits.

This bipartisan amendment, supported by members from both parties, has been a point of contention, signaling possible hurdles in achieving a consensus in the final bill. Despite these concerns, Westerman remains optimistic about the bill's prospects, believing that the White House is still in favor of the proposed legislative changes. “I expect the administration to still support the bill. I haven’t gotten any indication the administration isn’t supportive of the bill,” he commented.

Opposition also comes from within the Republican ranks, with Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) voicing his reluctance to expedite wind and solar projects which he believes still benefit disproportionately from subsidies. The debate extends across the aisle, with Democrats like Jared Golden of Maine supporting the bill, while others push for stronger provisions to prevent the scrapping of permits.

Environmental groups have also waded into the debate, with the League of Conservation Voters urging lawmakers to oppose the bill, citing the current administration’s blockade of renewable energy projects in the permitting process as a significant concern.

As the bill heads towards a potential floor vote, its fate hangs in the balance, with opposition from even a small number of Republicans potentially derailing its progress. Westerman continues to engage with critics and remains hopeful of reaching a compromise that will allow the bill to advance. "Hopefully we’ll work through it and get to a point where we can get the bill on the floor and get a good vote on it,” he said, signaling ongoing negotiations and the high stakes involved in this legislative endeavor.