Energy policy is frequently framed as a Republican vs. Democrat problem. But the reality is that energy is everyone’s problem, and finger-pointing, as Republican State Sen. Steve Hershey engages in a recent op-ed blaming rising utility rates on Democratic Maryland lawmakers, is neither productive nor accurate. Instead of misleading the public with partisan attacks, we should focus on real solutions that ensure both affordability and sustainability for Maryland’s energy future.

Maryland’s energy challenges are complex, and while Sen. Hershey would like to attribute every rising cost to Democratic policies, he overlooks fundamental market forces, broader industry trends and corporate interests. The transition to alternative energy is not a uniquely Democratic initiative — it is a response to economic, environmental and technological realities. Utilities, businesses, and even fossil fuel companies themselves are shifting toward renewables because they recognize the long-term costs of inaction. However, there is also an undeniable element of corporate greed at play. As much as we aim to regulate the industry, profit-driven motives can contribute to rising costs and inefficiencies, making it clear that market dynamics must be considered alongside policy decisions.

At the same time, I grow tired of the constant refrain that every issue is the fault of Democrats. What about the role Republicans have played? Deregulation, corporate tax breaks and an all-too-cozy relationship with large businesses have also contributed to rising costs and financial burdens on everyday citizens. This is not a battle between good and evil or right and wrong — it’s about who benefits from the policies being enacted. Greed and pride are deeply embedded in these political statements, and that kind of rhetoric disgusts me. Instead of standing on the sidelines pointing fingers, we should be rolling up our sleeves and working together to solve these problems.

One of the main policies Hershey criticizes, the EmPOWER Maryland Energy Efficiency Act, has been instrumental in reducing overall energy demand and saving consumers billions of dollars over time. Energy efficiency measures are an investment, and while there are upfront costs, the long-term benefits include lower overall consumption, reduced strain on the grid and less reliance on costly emergency energy sources. Dismissing these benefits in favor of short-term political attacks misleads the public and ignores the data.

Additionally, the state’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) is not an untested experiment — it is a widely adopted policy in states across the political spectrum, including Republican-led states that recognize the economic and environmental benefits of a diverse energy mix. The costs associated with renewables are rapidly decreasing, and states that invest in alternative energy today will benefit from lower energy prices in the future. Fossil fuel plants are closing not due to arbitrary government decisions but because alternative, more cost-effective energy sources are emerging. Even major utility companies acknowledge that the future of energy includes renewables, as they continue investing in solar, wind and battery storage technologies.

Furthermore, Hershey’s dire warnings about grid reliability are misleading. PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator, is actively working to balance the transition to alternative energy with reliability concerns. The recent power plant closures he cites were driven by a combination of economic factors and industry shifts, not simply state policy. The assertion that Democrats are ignoring grid reliability is false. Maryland’s energy strategy prioritizes a well-managed transition to ensure grid stability while reducing carbon emissions.

Blaming rising energy costs solely on environmental policies while ignoring factors such as global fuel prices, supply chain disruptions, corporate profit motives, and regional market dynamics is not just misleading, it is an oversimplification that distracts from real solutions. Rather than engaging in partisan rhetoric, Maryland lawmakers should focus on balanced policies that ensure reliability, affordability and sustainability for all residents.

Maryland’s energy future does not have to be a choice between affordability and environmental responsibility. A smart, forward-thinking approach considers both short-term costs and long-term benefits. We don’t have to put all our eggs in one basket — there are multiple ways to address our energy needs while maintaining grid stability and affordability. The real question is not whether we transition to alternative energy, but how we do so in a way that benefits all Marylanders. Instead of divisive finger-pointing, let’s work toward pragmatic, evidence-based solutions that strengthen our energy grid and keep costs manageable for consumers.

I’m tired of politicians who prefer blame games over real solutions. We need leaders who are willing to work across the aisle, collaborate on meaningful policies, and make America better together. It’s time to stop the political grandstanding and start focusing on practical, results-driven policymaking.

Blane Miller was a Democratic candidate for Maryland’s 1st Congressional District.