API Names Lance West as Vice President of Federal Government Relations

WASHINGTON, January 12, 2023 – The American Petroleum Institute (API) today named Lance West as its Vice President of Federal Government Relations, where he will lead the organization’s engagement and advocacy with Congress and federal agencies. West joins API from the office of West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, where he served as chief of staff. 

“Lance joins API at a critical time for our industry,” API president and CEO Mike Sommers said. “His position on Capitol Hill placed him at the center of some of our country’s more important legislative debates, and his deep relationships on both sides of the aisle will be a tremendous asset to our organization and the industry we serve.”

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to help shape a commonsense energy future that benefits all Americans,” West said. “API and its members are leading the world with innovative solutions to ensure we have reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy the country and world needs. More personally, I look forward to working with leaders Mike Sommers and Amanda Eversole, and the great team at API to strengthen our nation’s energy security with a strong, viable U.S. oil and natural gas industry.”

West previously served as chief of staff to Democratic U.S. Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia since 2019. Prior to that, West was deputy staff director for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources where he provided oversight and legislative support for issues ranging from energy development, parks and public lands, water, and the territories. West also previously directed federal affairs for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). He is graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

“I’m thrilled to bring Lance on to lead our federal team,” said API Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Amanda Eversole. “His experience, talents and temperament make him an ideal fit at a time when American families and businesses want real solutions to the everyday energy challenges our communities face.” 

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our approximately 600 members produce, process and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability.

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