BATON ROUGE, La. – New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte, South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford have joined the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security (GCES), Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry announced.
Their addition brings the coalition’s membership to 14 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The GCES, founded in September by Landry and former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, aims to address rising energy costs and promote policies to ensure affordable and reliable energy.
“We’re excited to have Governors Ayotte and Rhoden join GCES,” Landry said. “They bring new ideas, strong leadership, and a continued commitment to ensuring their states remain key partners in advancing our vision for effective energy policy that benefits all our citizens. Premier Ford’s addition further strengthens our team and underscores how deeply connected our two nations are when it comes to energy.”
Ayotte said New Hampshire is focused on reliable and affordable energy solutions. “I am glad to join Governor Landry and the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security to continue important conversations about how we can reduce energy prices and embrace new technologies,” she said.
Rhoden emphasized the importance of a broad-based energy approach. “South Dakotans deserve reliable, affordable energy and the freedom to choose what power source works best for their homes and businesses,” he said. “Through this Coalition, we will deliver common sense energy policies that strengthen our economy and protect consumer choice.”
Ford said Ontario’s participation highlights the strength of cross-border cooperation. “We want to use Ontario’s vast resources — including critical minerals — and energy expertise in nuclear, hydroelectricity and more to support energy security and affordability across the continent,” he said.
GCES members now include governors and premiers from Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Wyoming, Arkansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Virginia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.
The coalition advocates for policies that prioritize energy affordability and reliability, reduce regulatory barriers, limit costly mandates, and promote responsible resource management.