The Wall Street Journal reports U.S. oil executives are lobbying to block a
diesel export ban being considered by President Trump. Industry officials had
believed they had persuaded Washington to maintain exports, but Trump told the
U.N. General Assembly he is weighing limits, surprising energy executives.
Company executives and lobbyists have phoned administration officials and
Republican lawmakers to oppose a ban, but Republican senators facing election
pressure are urging action, making some form of export restriction appear
increasingly likely. Oil companies warn even a temporary curtailment of diesel
exports could cost U.S. refiners tens of billions of dollars in revenue. An
energy adviser tied to refiners said the whole industry is mobilizing and that
Republicans view a temporary export ban as the only way to help win several key
Senate races.
