This month, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., will take over for Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., and Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., as the leaders of the House and Senate, respectively. While this represents a dramatic political change, it doesn't signal a policy change with respect to renewable fuels. Ethanol's support has always been bipartisan, and it is growing with every new biorefinery that opens.

In fact, one could make the argument that the results of the election have pushed the debate over renewable energy to the top of the list, not because of who voters chose but because of the issues on which they voted. Two months prior to the elections, a poll conducted for Democracy Corps found 41 percent of respondents viewed reducing dependence on foreign oil as the No. 1 national security priority for the new Congress. It far outpaced terrorism and Iraq.

It seems that both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue have gotten the message. Democrats and republicans alike on Capitol Hill have already begun working together to address the energy concerns of average Americans. Increasing the production and use of renewable energy resources, such as ethanol, remains a top priority.

Similarly, President George W. Bush and his administration continue to travel the country touting renewable fuels and pursuing policies that will help set America on a path toward energy independence.

For a president seeking to define his presidency and a Congress looking to distinguish itself, renewable energy, and ethanol in particular, offer an opportunity to put party politics aside and achieve real results for this country.

Let's be clear: Everyone is aware that renewable fuels are not the silver bullet. It will take a diverse portfolio of energy options to truly attain the ultimate goal of energy independence.

No doubt, such a shift in American energy policy will create new opportunities as well as new challenges. It will take bold vision and determined leadership.

Fortunately, Washington D.C., produces its own renewable resource steeped in sound public policy: political will. Congress has repeatedly shown overwhelming support for an agenda that lessens our dependence on foreign oil, provides economic opportunity and leaves a cleaner environment for future generations.

Early results are in from the 110th Congress. They have heard the message loud and clear. You have to appreciate our democracy in action.

Here's to a successful and safe 2007 to you and yours.

Bob Dinneen
President and CEO
Renewable Fuels Association