Washington, D.C. Nov 17, (V7N)- President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Chris Wright, a fracking magnate and climate change skeptic, as his Secretary of Energy, signaling a clear direction for his upcoming administration's energy policy. Wright, the founder of Liberty Energy, a company at the forefront of the fracking industry, will be tasked with reducing regulations and fostering investment in fossil fuels—aligning with Trump’s goal of boosting domestic energy production and driving down costs.

Trump expressed confidence in Wright, saying, "As Secretary of Energy, Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new 'Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace.'" In a statement after the announcement, Wright reaffirmed his commitment to making American energy more affordable, reliable, and secure, claiming that "Energy is the lifeblood that makes everything in life possible."

Wright's nomination follows his controversial views on climate change. He has denied the existence of a "climate crisis" and rejected the notion of an energy transition, asserting that "carbon dioxide is essential for life." He has also argued that the concept of clean energy versus dirty energy is misleading, emphasizing that all energy sources have both positive and negative impacts.

Trump's Energy Agenda

During his campaign, Trump made it clear that he views climate change as a hoax and promised to expand the fossil fuel industry to lower energy prices and reduce inflation. His administration aims to roll back environmental regulations and withdraw from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. Wright's appointment signals a continuation of these policies, with the goal of increasing oil and gas production through practices like fracking.

The incoming administration will also be working closely with North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, who will head the newly established National Energy Council, focusing on boosting all forms of energy production and creating new jobs. Trump's rhetoric includes phrases like "We will DRILL BABY DRILL," reinforcing his stance on expanding domestic energy production.

Controversial Picks

While Trump's cabinet appointments have included mainstream figures like Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, the energy secretary nomination has raised eyebrows. Wright’s views on climate change, combined with his lack of government experience, make him a polarizing figure. He is notably at odds with some of Trump’s key allies, including Elon Musk, the Tesla CEO who has pushed for greater investments in solar energy and electric vehicles to combat climate change.

Other controversial picks in Trump's early cabinet announcements include Matt Gaetz, nominated as attorney general despite his history of legal controversies, and Pete Hegseth, chosen to lead the Pentagon despite limited military experience. Trump’s administration is shaping up to be one marked by loyalty to the president rather than traditional qualifications.

As the Senate, now controlled by Republicans, prepares to review these nominations, Trump has urged lawmakers to avoid delaying or obstructing the confirmation process, emphasizing his agenda of economic growth through fossil fuels and deregulation.

END/SMA/DHK/RH