FLORIDA — US President-elect Donald Trump has selected Chris Wright, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy and a prominent advocate for oil and gas development, as his energy secretary, marking a decisive shift toward boosting fossil fuels in his upcoming administration.
Wright, known for his support of fracking and skepticism toward climate change initiatives, has been a vocal proponent of expanding fossil fuel production globally.
His nomination aligns with Trump’s vision of achieving U.S. “energy dominance” on the world stage.
“He’s an energy innovator who laid the foundation for America’s fracking boom,” said Republican Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming, who is set to chair the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
“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 national security.”
The Energy Department oversees the nation’s nuclear security, energy research, and natural gas export approvals, as well as environmental cleanups related to nuclear weapons.
Wright’s background includes founding Pinnacle Technologies, a company that advanced shale gas production through hydraulic fracturing, and Liberty Resources, a major energy services provider.
In addition to Wright, Trump’s energy policy team includes North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, tapped for interior secretary, who will chair a newly formed National Energy Council aimed at solidifying U.S. energy dominance.
The announcement came alongside Trump ally Elon Musk’s public advocacy for Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, to lead the Treasury Department. — Agencies