“Only Ten Percent Will Go to Joe’s Cronies”: Biden’s $400 Billion Green Energy Initiative Criticized by Inspector General Over Risks to Taxpayer Dollars

Gabriel RomanNov 13, 2023

Minute Read

In recent news, there’s been a lot of talk about a big plan from the U.S. government to spend a lot of money on making our energy cleaner and safer. But not everyone thinks this is a good idea. Some people, like Teri Donaldson, who checks how the government spends its money, are worried about how it will be used.

Big Money in Green Energy

The Inflation Reduction Act, a significant legislative move in August 2022, marked a new era for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office. With funds exceeding $400 billion, the focus shifted dramatically toward enhancing green energy initiatives. This financial commitment underlines the government’s dedication to transforming the energy sector into one that is efficient and environmentally friendly.

A Huge Increase for Loans

Teri Donaldson, the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Energy, noted a remarkable expansion in the loan program’s capacity courtesy of the Inflation Reduction Act. Donaldson highlighted, “This new act added $350 billion to their loan program.” This fund increase represents a significant commitment to advancing green energy and improving environmental sustainability.

More Money from Other Acts

The Inflation Reduction Act isn’t the only legislative piece contributing to the green energy push. Other significant laws, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, have collectively poured an additional $35 billion into the Department of Energy’s initiatives. The government is committed to advancing renewable energy sources and environmental conservation efforts.

A Challenging Task Ahead

The Department of Energy is now tasked with a complex and demanding challenge. Teri Donaldson, the Department’s Inspector General, expressed concerns about this daunting task, stating, “It’s not easy to handle so much money and make sure it’s used right.” This statement captures the critical responsibility of the Department to ensure optimal use of these funds.

Concerns Over Money Use

Inspector General Donaldson voiced significant apprehensions regarding these substantial funds’ potential misuse or misallocation. She stressed the need for careful oversight and strategic planning to ensure the resources are directed toward the most impactful and appropriate initiatives. It seems there are concerns over accountability and transparency in handling such a massive influx of taxpayer money.

Vetting for Safety

In response to these concerns, the Department of Energy established a vetting center to oversee the proper allocation of funds. However, Donaldson pointed out the newness of this center, saying. “It’s still new and small, with only three people and no set rules yet.” She suggested that there is a need for further development and expansion of this critical oversight mechanism.

Unclear Project Plans

Donaldson also questioned the ambiguity in project selection and funding criteria. She stressed the necessity for clear and transparent guidelines to determine which projects receive funding and the rationale behind these decisions. This lack of clarity, as pointed out by Donaldson, raises concerns about the effective and fair distribution of these substantial financial resources.

A Report of Concerns

Senator John Barrasso and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers raised a red flag about potential geopolitical implications. They cautioned against supporting foreign competitors through the Inflation Reduction Act. Their report emphasized the need for safeguards to prevent funding from benefiting nations like China, which could be at odds with American interests.

Debate Over Deficit and Spending

Social media erupted with concerns over the national deficit, which stands at $2 trillion, yet the government plans to invest hundreds of billions more in green energy. Critics argue that such decisions can’t be mere oversight. They suggest a deliberate strategy. “These are not stupid people, so this must be intentional,” voiced one skeptic, questioning the rationale behind such significant spending amidst a soaring deficit.

Sarcasm on Misuse of Funds

One user questioned the integrity of fund allocation under President Biden’s administration. They said, “No way will the Big Guy let ANY of that money get misused or misappropriated. I am sure that only ten percent, tops, will go to any of Joe’s cronies, family, and friends.” This reflects a deep skepticism about the misuse of government funds.

Cynicism About Profitability

Some questioned the viability and profitability of green energy investments, with users calling it a “money-losing proposition.” One individual remarked, “Fleecing his flock for fun and profit.” They showed clear doubt over the economic soundness of these investments, even if business analysts disagree.

Skepticism Over Borrowing for Green Agenda

Some users showed concerns about borrowing billions to fund the green agenda. Critics compared this strategy to past failures, like Solyndra and Fisker, suggesting a repeat on a much larger scale. “Shoveling billions of dollars we have to borrow to further a ‘green’ agenda might be wasted? Imagine that! Solyndra and Fisker times ten,” a user commented skeptically.

Allegations of Partisan Benefit

Other social media users accused Democratic programs of channeling taxpayer money to benefit wealthy Democrats. “If you follow the money on any dem generated program, you will find wealthy dems at the table feasting on the taxpayer money,” said one user. They suggested partisan misuse of funds.

Demand for Accountability

Some voiced frustrations over perceived inaction by elected representatives. They argue these representatives could not stop the Biden administration’s apparent unlawful and criminal actions. “Just when are these so-called representatives that ‘we the people’ hired going to start listening to us?” one user said.

Claims of No Real Biden Plan

Doubts were cast on President Biden’s ability to create a substantial plan, with accusations of him being a mere figurehead. “There has never been a ‘Biden plan.’ Biden is incapable of devising anything outside of money laundering for his own family,” a critic claimed. They implied a lack of genuine leadership in the administration.

Speculations on Biden’s Alleged CCP Debt

One user said, “Give him a break. Joe is indebted to the CCP. What’s wrong with him spending a few hundred billion tax dollars to bail himself out?” This comment reflects a broader narrative of distrust and conspiracy theories regarding Biden’s administration. Many people believe him to be a puppet of another group.

Concerns Over Misappropriation

Echoing earlier sentiments, another user expressed concern about potential misuse of funds. They sarcastically said, “I am sure that only ten percent, tops, will go to any of Joe’s cronies, family, and friends.” This implies a belief that a significant portion of the funds might be diverted for personal gains.

Criticisms of Economic Feasibility

There were also users who questioned the economic possibility of green energy investments. Some users cited the national debt and the risk of wasteful spending. “They need to put the brakes to all of his scam agendas of shelling out our tax dollars to this so-called green energy scam.” This reflects a common concern about the potential financial negligence of green energy initiatives.