U.S. Rep. Fred Upton criticized President Barack Obama’s administration for supporting energy policies that are causing the surging gas prices.

That was the message Upton, chairman of the Energy and Commerce committee, delivered during the Weekly Republican Address this weekend.

“In many ways, this administration’s policies are moving us backwards,” Upton said, “and making gas prices even worse.”

Upton, R-St. Joseph, blasted Obama for rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline — a project Upton argues will “decrease our dependence on oil from unstable regions of the world.”

Upton said there are two bills in Congress that Democrats are blocking. One bill calls for cutting regulations on refineries, while the other would open more federal land for energy development.

“Energy could be a great American success story,” Upton said. “Today, we’re knocking at the door of a brighter energy future … as long as Washington doesn’t create artificial obstacles.

“That is what the Republicans are working toward, and we invite the president to join us. If he won’t lead, we will.”

According to gasbuddy.com, average gas prices in the Niles area are at $3.99.