Press Releases

U.S. Congressman Garret Graves (South Louisiana) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Mark Menezes as Deputy Secretary of Energy (DOE).

"I grew up watching Mark on Happy Days and he sure has come a long way. It's always great to see another Louisianan, LSU grad and Cong. Tauzin alumnus appointed to a top role at the Department of (Louisiana) Energy, helping lead the global energy revolution and ensuring that America and Louisiana play a leading role. I've known Mark as a coworker and friend for a long time and I can't think of a better person for the job. In times like these, Cajuns are showing the country yet again we can step up to the plate and deliver. Congratulations again, Mark," Graves said.

Menezes will serve under Secretary Dan Brouillette at DOE, a fellow Louisiana native. Graves' previous work with Brouillette and Menezes has strengthened his standing with DOE and given South Louisiana a seat at the table on energy discussions.

Graves worked with Menezes on the transformative Energy Policy Act of 2005 as Menezes was then-Chief Counsel on the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 set up the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export industry we have now by authorizing construction, expansion and operation of LNG terminals, and also granted the Secretary permanent authority to operate the Nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Graves' previous involvement in SPR came to the forefront this year as DOE filled the SPR in response to the global oil price war posed by threats by Saudi Arabia, Russia and OPEC nations.

The pictures below are evidence that reaffirm Graves' long-standing nickname for Menezes based on his look-alike – Fonz from Happy Days.

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