A visit from President Donald Trump put the Port of Corpus Christi in the national spotlight as he spoke on various topics, such as energy and the economy.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Corpus Christi was in the national spotlight Friday as President Donald Trump visited the Port of Corpus Christi, the nation’s largest energy export gateway, delivering remarks focused on oil, gas and the region’s role in U.S. energy production.
Port officials said this marks the first time a sitting President has visited the port.
“We’re experiencing an energy boom,” Trump said.
At the beginning of his speech, Trump complimented the new Harbor Bridge. “What a nice bridge! Oh, I like that color,” he said.
President Trump addressed supporters as well as local, state and federal officials gathered at the port, with the ship channel serving as his backdrop. Energy production took center stage during his speech.
“Drill baby drill,” Trump said.
“Natural gas production is at an all-time record high by far. And today right here in Corpus Christi is down to less than actually two dollars and 30 cents,” he added.
He spoke on a variety of topics including immigration enforcement, inflation, cost-of-living concerns and the upcoming primary election.
Among the state officials in attendance were Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
“Trump supports our law enforcement officers. So do we in Texas,” Abbott said.
“Let me get a selfie first. Can we get a quick selfie out here?” Patrick joked from the stage.
Port Commission Chairman Gabe Guerra said the visit highlights the port’s significance in global energy markets.
“We’re the number one crude exporter of American-produced oil in America. We’re the second in liquified natural gas and you just heard about what Cheniere Energy is doing to expand,” Guerra said.
He added that the region’s growth translates into opportunities for local workers.
“All of these workers that have come out here. And it means that these young people coming out of high school, coming out of college, engineers, technical, operators, can have great paying jobs that can help raise the tide in our own communities,” Guerra said.
Trump ended his remarks by thanking the community for its turnout.
“Thank you Corpus Christi, thank you very much. Thank you Texas,” he said.