President-elect Donald Trump has named Chris Wright, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy and a prominent advocate for fossil fuels, as his pick for Secretary of Energy. Wright, known for his outspoken support of oil and gas development, particularly fracking, is set to play a pivotal role in Trump's drive for U.S. "energy dominance." His nomination signals a strategic shift towards bolstering domestic energy production and cutting back on regulatory measures that were prominent under previous administrations.
"Chris has been a leading technologist and entrepreneur in Energy," Trump announced on Saturday. "He has worked in Nuclear, Solar, Geothermal, and Oil and Gas. Most significantly, Chris was one of the pioneers who helped launch the American Shale Revolution that fueled American Energy Independence, and transformed the Global Energy Markets and Geopolitics." Wright's appointment comes with plans for him to serve on the newly established Council of National Energy, which aims to integrate the efforts of agencies involved in energy permitting, production, regulation, and more. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Trump's nominee for Secretary of the Interior, will chair the council.
Wright's nomination has been met with strong support from key figures in the energy sector. Harold Hamm, executive chairman of Continental Resources and a longstanding Trump ally, was among those backing the decision. Senator John Barrasso, who is expected to lead the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said, "He's an energy innovator who laid the foundation for America's fracking boom. After four years of America-last energy policy, our country is desperate for a secretary who understands how important American energy is to our economy and our national security."
Wright's extensive background in the energy sector underscores his selection. An MIT graduate with expertise in nuclear and geothermal technologies, Wright founded Pinnacle Technologies in 1992, a company that significantly advanced the commercial use of hydraulic fracturing. He later served as chairman of Stroud Energy and established Liberty Resources in 2010, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
His critics, however, are likely to voice concerns about his stance on climate change and environmental regulations. Wright has been a vocal critic of what he describes as "top-down" climate policies, dismissing many global climate initiatives as "collapsing under their own weight." His leadership is expected to prioritize expanding natural gas exports and dismantling regulatory constraints on fossil fuel production.
Liberty Energy, Wright's company, is a major player in energy services, particularly fracking technology. As Secretary of Energy, he would oversee a department responsible for nuclear security, energy research, and environmental safety. Trump's administration has signaled its intent to accelerate fossil fuel production, reduce regulatory hurdles, and push for greater energy independence.
Thomas Pyle, president of the American Energy Alliance and head of Trump's Energy Department transition team in 2016, described Wright as "an excellent choice." Pyle and other industry advocates believe Wright's expertise and commitment to energy innovation will benefit the U.S. economy and strengthen national security.
