The Senate on Monday confirmed Chris Wright, a fossil fuel executive and CEO of Liberty Energy, to serve as the United States Energy Secretary under President Donald Trump. The vote passed with a margin of 59-38, showcasing bipartisan support with eight Democrats—including both senators from Colorado, Wright's home state—voting in favor of his nomination.

Wright, a prominent advocate of fossil fuel production, has long denounced climate change initiatives, arguing that increased fossil fuel output can significantly alleviate global poverty. At his confirmation hearing, he reiterated a commitment to the Trump administration’s energy agenda, encapsulated by the mantra “drill, baby, drill,” aimed at dismantling what he termed the Democrats' “green new scam.” He said, “President Trump shares my passion for energy” and promised to “work tirelessly to implement [Trump’s] bold agenda” for reliable and secure American energy resources, which would encompass oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear, and renewable energy sources like wind and solar Source.

During the hearings, Wright conveyed that while he acknowledges the realities of climate change, he believes that it should not stifle the push for increased energy production. This sentiment was heavily criticized, especially given previous remarks where he dismissed government efforts to combat climate change as destined to fail. Los Angeles Times reported that Wright remarked, “There isn’t dirty energy or clean energy. We have different sources with varying trade-offs.”

Despite his oil executive background and a history of combating climate change narratives, Wright’s nomination faced fierce opposition from environmental advocates. For instance, Lena Moffitt, head of the environmental group Evergreen Action, critiqued the nomination, stating, “Senate Republicans just handed Trump’s Big Oil allies the keys to the Department of Energy.” This concern reflects an underlying fear that his leadership could stall investments in clean energy and exacerbate reliance on fossil fuels, echoed by many Democratic senators USA Today.

As Energy Secretary, Wright will oversee a significant budget of approximately $50 billion, predominantly focusing on nuclear weapon stockpiling management and energy diplomacy. He will also take part in a National Energy Council, tasked with formulating policies that aim to enhance fossil fuel production, a stark shift from initiatives taken under former President Joe Biden, who prioritized climate change measures.

In a statement following his confirmation, Wright asserted he would sever all ties with the fossil fuel industry, aiming to emphasize his commitment to public service. Nevertheless, opinions are polarized surrounding the direction of U.S. energy policy under his stewardship, especially as it pertains to climate change initiatives The Guardian.