Senate confirms Chris Wright to lead energy department

In early 2025, the U.S. Senate confirmed Chris Wright as the energy secretary, following a nomination that received significant attention due to Wright's background in the fossil fuel industry. Former President Donald Trump nominated Wright to promote what he termed U.S. 'energy dominance' globally, as part of his administration's focus on increasing fossil fuel production. Advocates for Wright, including Republican senators, lauded his industry experience and vision for energy production. However, his appointment sparked controversy due to his vocal opposition to climate change measures and his belief in energy production as a solution to poverty on a global scale. Wright, who has been the CEO of Liberty Energy since 2011, has been a prominent figure in the fossil fuel sector, supporting the production of oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear, and renewable energy sources, with a strong emphasis on streamlining regulations for domestic energy production. His prior work included founding Pinnacle Technologies, which contributed to the rise of commercial shale gas extraction through hydraulic fracturing. Although he has no government experience, his confirmation reflects the Trump administration's commitment to shifting policies towards energy production, often at odds with the climate initiatives prioritized by the previous administration. During his confirmation hearing, Wright emphasized his collaborative approach to working with diverse energy sectors and expressed his commitment to implementing Trump's energy agenda. His acknowledgment of climate change alongside his views on energy production caused divisions among lawmakers, particularly among Democratic senators who criticized his track record in the industry. Nevertheless, Wright's scientific background and belief in energy research garnered some support even among his home-state Democratic colleagues, who stated they would work with him to ensure that Colorado leads in energy innovation. The National Energy Council, which Wright will help lead, aims to unify all executive branch agencies involved in energy matters to enhance American energy security and reduce regulatory barriers. This effort signifies a notable policy shift, contrasting sharply with the actions taken under the Biden administration, which prioritized combating climate change. Critics have already voiced their concerns over Wright's potential influence on U.S. energy policy, particularly regarding the long-term effects on the environment and climate initiatives.