The Senate has officially confirmed Chris Wright, a fossil fuel executive, to become the energy secretary—a significant role in President Donald Trump’s aim to establish U.S. “energy dominance” globally.
Wright, who is the CEO of Liberty Energy, based in Denver, has emerged as a prominent figure voicing opposition to climate change mitigation efforts. He argues that increased fossil fuel production can play a critical role in lifting people out of poverty worldwide. Wright has expressed his commitment to assisting Trump in enhancing energy security and prosperity in the U.S.
His nomination passed in the Senate with a vote of 59-38, with eight Democrats, including both senators from Wright’s home state of Colorado, supporting his confirmation. The core of Trump’s energy strategy is “drill, baby, drill,” proposing a shift away from what he describes as the Democrats’ “green new scam,” aiming instead to escalate fossil fuel production, which includes oil, natural gas, and coal that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
During his confirmation hearing, Wright stated, “President Trump shares my passion for energy,” promising that if appointed, he would advocate vigorously for Trump’s ambitious plan as a steadfast supporter of all forms of affordable, reliable, and secure American energy. Wright’s vision encompasses not just fossil fuels but also nuclear power, hydropower, wind, solar energy, and geothermal solutions.
Nevertheless, Trump’s energy aspirations may face practical challenges, including the fact that U.S. oil production is already reaching historic highs. Companies cannot be compelled to increase drilling, and higher production could result in lower prices, impacting profit margins.
Senator John Barrasso from Wyoming, the second-highest-ranking Republican, praised Wright as an innovator in the industry who “tells the truth about energy production.” He affirmed that Wright recognizes climate change’s reality but believes that increased American energy output is the solution rather than the issue.
In line with this, Senator Mike Lee of Utah, who chairs the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, remarked that Wright grasps the necessity of energy policies aimed at making energy abundant and affordable for families and businesses.
“America deserves a champion for energy and innovation, and we’ve got the Wright man for the task,” Lee noted in a social media post.
Despite their political differences, Colorado’s two Democratic senators supported Wright’s nomination. Senator John Hickenlooper described him as a scientist committed to energy research that promotes affordable, reliable, and clean energy, emphasizing the urgency to collaborate for effective action rather than waiting four years.
Senator Michael Bennet remarked that Wright is an accomplished entrepreneur in Colorado with extensive knowledge of energy technology and innovation, vowing to work alongside him to sustain Colorado’s leadership in energy advancement.
At his hearing, Wright acknowledged the reality of climate change but argued that there is no clear division between “dirty energy” and “clean energy,” instead describing energy sources as having various trade-offs.
At 60, Wright has led Liberty Energy since 2011 and although he lacks experienced government roles, he has a solid educational background, having studied at MIT and UC Berkeley. He founded Pinnacle Technologies in 1992, which significantly contributed to the rise of commercial shale gas production through hydraulic fracturing.
As the energy secretary, Wright is expected to collaborate with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on energy policies. They will both serve on a newly formed National Energy Council, chaired by Burgum, which will encompass all agencies related to energy, focusing on minimizing bureaucratic obstacles and enhancing domestic energy output. This initiative represents a significant policy shift compared to the priorities set by President Joe Biden, who has emphasized climate change action.
Wright has committed to distancing himself from the energy industry should he take office. However, environmental advocates have criticized the Senate’s decision. Lena Moffitt from Evergreen Action stated that the Democrats should have uniformly opposed Wright’s appointment.
She expressed concerns that Senate Republicans have effectively given Trump’s Big Oil allies control over the Department of Energy, as Wright has built his career on expanding fossil fuel interests and dismissing climate science. Moffitt emphasized the need for Democrats to unite and counteract Trump’s strategy that favors fossil fuel interests.
