US Senate Confirms Fracking CEO Chris Wright as Trump's Energy Secretary
The U.S. Senate has confirmed Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, as the new Secretary of Energy under President Donald Trump. Wright secured the position with a 59-38 vote, gaining support from seven Democrats and one Independent.
A Leader in Fossil Fuels with a Vision for Expansion
At 60 years old, Wright has led Liberty Energy since 2011, a company known for its role in hydraulic fracturing (fracking). Following his confirmation, he has announced plans to step down from the company to fully dedicate himself to the Department of Energy (DOE). While acknowledging human-caused climate change, Wright has downplayed its urgency, calling its hazards “distant and uncertain.” He remains skeptical about government-led climate policies, arguing they are unlikely to succeed.
Overseeing a $50 Billion Budget and America’s Energy Future
As Energy Secretary, Wright will manage the DOE’s $50 billion budget, half of which is allocated to maintaining the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. He will also oversee 17 national laboratories conducting research on advanced energy technologies, including nuclear power, supercomputing, and fusion energy.
Wright’s top priority is to expand U.S. energy production, particularly in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and nuclear power. With the U.S. already leading the world in LNG exports, his policies could further boost production, potentially doubling shipments by the end of the decade.
A Shift in Climate and Energy Policy
Wright is expected to work alongside Environmental Protection Agency chief Lee Zeldin to roll back climate policies from the previous administration. His focus is on increasing fossil fuel infrastructure, such as gas pipelines and power plants, while also supporting geothermal and nuclear energy expansion.
In addition, Wright will play a key role in the newly formed National Energy Dominance Council, led by former North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. This council aims to maximize U.S. oil and gas output, despite the country already being the world’s largest producer of both.
Managing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
Another major responsibility on Wright’s plate is overseeing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR)—the world’s largest crude oil stockpile. The SPR reached a 40-year low after significant withdrawals in 2022 to counter rising fuel prices. President Trump has vowed to refill it, but doing so will require congressional approval and could lead to higher oil prices.
The Future of American Energy Under Wright’s Leadership
Despite his strong ties to fossil fuels, Wright has expressed support for emerging clean energy sources like geothermal and nuclear power. He previously served on the board of Oklo, a startup specializing in small modular nuclear reactors, signaling potential advancements in nuclear energy under his leadership.
As the new Energy Secretary, Chris Wright’s policies will shape America’s energy landscape for years to come, balancing fossil fuel expansion with select clean energy investments. His tenure is expected to redefine national energy policy, emphasizing energy dominance, infrastructure development, and strategic resource management.
