After the US mid-terms

US energy policy remains President Obama's number-one priority, but with control of Congress in the balance, it will remain in limbo

AFTER almost two years of watching partisan politics virtually paralyse the US Congress, the public is in a surly mood. The Democrats, who were last month in control of the Senate and House of Representatives, could suffer significant damage if voters express their discontent at the polls on 2 November. Historically, the midterm elections have cost the majority party some seats. If Republicans make significant gains this month, what can the industry expect after the 112th Congress convenes in January? Even if the Democrats maintain their majority, most likely the window of opportunity to win passage of a comprehensive energy package has already closed. Although President Barack Obama has ran