During his confirmation hearing on Wednesday before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Chris Wright, designated as Donald Trump’s energy secretary, assured senators he would advocate for all forms of American energy while recognizing that the combustion of fossil fuels contributes to climate change.
Wright, a notable figure in the fossil fuel sector, has previously been an outspoken opponent of initiatives aimed at combating climate change. He argues that increasing fossil fuel extraction can help alleviate poverty on a global scale. Notably, the hearing was frequently disrupted by protesters who expressed their concerns loudly throughout the session.
One of the key takeaways was Wright’s commitment to advancing what he described as Trump’s “bold energy agenda.” As the CEO of Liberty Energy, based in Denver, he pledged to assist in enhancing energy security and economic prosperity. Under Trump’s energy strategy, characterized by the motto “drill, baby, drill,” there is a clear shift towards dismantling what Trump labels the “green new scam,” emphasizing an increase in fossil fuel production—oil, natural gas, and coal—all of which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions when burned.
“President Trump shares my passion for energy,” Wright stated, indicating that if confirmed, he would dedicate himself to advancing a comprehensive energy strategy that spans various sources. He highlighted the importance of oil and natural gas to the U.S. economy while also mentioning coal, nuclear power, hydropower, and the rapidly expanding sectors of wind and solar energy, as well as the potential of geothermal energy.
Senator John Hickenlooper, a Democrat from Colorado, described Wright as “an unrestrained enthusiast for fossil fuels,” but acknowledged his scientific background in nuclear studies and solar energy which made Wright seem open to discourse.
Addressing climate change, Senator Angus King of Maine remarked on Wright’s seemingly nuanced perspective, emphasizing that he does not deny the reality of climate change or its connection to fossil fuel consumption, which significantly raises atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. To this, Wright affirmed, noting the alarming increase of 50% in atmospheric CO2 concentrations due primarily to the burning of hydrocarbons, complicating the planet’s ability to release heat.
While acknowledging the authenticity of climate change, Wright expressed a viewpoint that contrasts “dirty” and “clean” energy, proposing instead that all energy sources come with distinct tradeoffs.
“Energy is essential to human existence. Climate change is a global issue we must address,” he said. Wright pointed out that political decisions regarding the trade-offs between energy production and climate action will profoundly affect the future and quality of life.
In response to inquiries about his prior assertion that “wildfires are just hype,” Senator Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, confronted Wright in light of the catastrophic fires affecting the West. As climate scientists link climate change to increased wildfire severity and frequency, Padilla challenged Wright’s previous comments, particularly in light of ongoing devastation in California.
When Wright reiterated his stance, Padilla pressed him on the devastating impact on families affected by the fires, a question Wright did not directly answer.
Throughout the confirmation process, various protests occurred, with demonstrators vocalizing urgent pleas for action on climate change and holding signs that criticized oil profiteering amid environmental catastrophes.
Despite the disruptions, Wright remained focused on his initiatives, including promoting geothermal energy, nuclear energy expansion, and support for natural gas production. He mentioned his involvement with various companies in these sectors, specifically spotlighting geothermal energy as a significant untapped resource and expressing enthusiasm for accelerating nuclear projects to meet electricity demands globally.
Finally, when asked by Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, whether he would support a proposed liquefied natural gas export project in her state, Wright responded favorably, deeming it “a tremendous idea” that would benefit the nation while reinforcing his commitment to sever any existing ties within the energy industry if confirmed.
