I’ve got a confession to make: I can’t stand guns and can’t stand the gun lobby even more. I can tell this audience that. I don’t analyze gun issues or Second Amendment rights for a living. In fact, I used to be a member of the Million Mom March, a group dedicated to sensible gun control. I’ve even written some visceral columns on these issues with no hint of objectivity.

While I dislike the gun lobby and specifically the National Rifle Association, I believe strongly in its right to free speech. Likewise, I believe in free speech for those groups dead set against their positions. And the battle to persuade the general public and ultimately Congress needs to take place in the marketplace of ideas. That discussion should not be censored in any way.

What does any of this have to do with energy? As we speak, major energy legislation is pending. And the lobbyists representing the various stakeholders are all roaming the halls of Congress trying to win support for their causes. Some represent big business. Others represent environmental causes. Each has a right to petition their government.

I may not like the outcome of a particular bill. But I then have a right to lead opposing campaigns. The conflicts can be so intense that it forces compromise while lawmakers who are seen as water boys often risk getting doused. Gun issues may be the exception to the rule. But, energy issues are not.