Senate Confirms Fossil Fuel Executive Chris Wright as Energy Secretary
WASHINGTON – The Senate confirmed Chris Wright as the next U.S. Energy Secretary on Monday, placing the fossil fuel executive at the helm of the nation’s energy policy. Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, has been a strong advocate for expanding oil and gas production and opposes many climate-focused initiatives.
The Senate approved his nomination with a 59-38 vote, advancing President Donald Trump’s vision of "energy dominance" by prioritizing fossil fuel production.
A Push for Expanded Fossil Fuel Production
Wright has argued that increasing fossil fuel output can lift people out of poverty worldwide. At his confirmation hearing last month, he pledged to help Trump “unleash energy security and prosperity” by supporting oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear power, and hydropower, in addition to renewables like wind and solar.
“President Trump shares my passion for energy,” Wright said. “I will work tirelessly to implement his bold agenda as an unapologetic advocate for affordable, reliable, and secure American energy.”
Trump’s Energy Agenda Faces Challenges
Trump’s "drill, baby, drill" energy policy prioritizes fossil fuel expansion while rolling back climate regulations. However, U.S. oil production is already at record levels, and the federal government cannot force companies to drill more. Increased production could also lead to lower prices and reduced industry profits.
Despite these challenges, Wright’s appointment has been praised by Republicans and industry leaders.
Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) called Wright an innovator who “tells the truth about energy production.”
Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) said Wright understands the need for "abundant and affordable energy", adding, "We’ve got the Wright guy for the job."
Colorado Sen. John Hickenlooper (D) supported Wright, citing his scientific background and commitment to energy research.
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) described Wright as a successful entrepreneur with deep expertise in energy technology and innovation.
A Long Career in Fossil Fuels
Wright, 60, has been the chairman and CEO of Liberty Energy since 2011. A Colorado native, he holds degrees from MIT and UC Berkeley. His career began in shale gas production, where he helped pioneer fracking technology through his company Pinnacle Technologies.
As Energy Secretary, Wright will serve alongside Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on Trump’s newly formed National Energy Council. The council, chaired by Burgum, will streamline energy permitting, cut regulations, and boost domestic energy production—a sharp reversal from Biden-era climate policies.
While Wright acknowledges climate change is real, he argues that “there isn’t dirty energy or clean energy”, only different sources with tradeoffs.
To avoid conflicts of interest, Wright has pledged to sever all ties with the energy industry during his tenure.
