'Oil Patch' Democrats

The term 'Oil Patch' Democrats refers to members of Congress from states such as Texas and Louisiana where there is a well developed oil industry.

The term also refers (usually without a space in 'OilPatch') to a Democratic Party club primarily based in Houston, Texas, whose members are professionals in the oil, gas and other energy-related industries. Their mission statement says, "Oil Patch Democrats (OPD) seek to promote a responsible conduct of business within the energy industry for the common good of our country, particularly as it applies to energy efficiency, conservation, the environment, human rights, workers rights, the economy, domestic and foreign relations, national security and corporate accountability." The OPD has organized an Energy Caucus at the Texas Democratic Party State Conventions in 2004 and 2008.

Related SourceWatch articles

 * Oil industry

External articles

 * Louis Jacobson, :CongressNow: ‘Oil Patch’ Democrats Push Drilling Plan", RollCall, August 28, 2008.