Trump names fracking executive Chris Wright energy secretary

Donald Trump has selected Chris Wright, a prominent oil and gas industry executive, as his pick to head the US Department of Energy. Wright, the founder and CEO of Liberty Energy, is known for his role in the shale oil boom, and is expected to help fulfill the president-elect’s promise to boost fossil fuel production. This vision aligns with Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” campaign slogan, which emphasizes expanding oil and gas extraction, particularly from shale fields through the controversial fracking method.

In a statement, Trump praised Wright’s contributions to the energy industry, calling him “one of the pioneers who helped launch the American Shale Revolution,” which Trump said has been key to achieving “American Energy Independence” and reshaping both global energy markets and geopolitics. Trump added, “As Secretary of Energy, Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace.”

Wright, who has been a strong advocate for increased fossil fuel production, is known for his skepticism regarding climate change. He has publicly dismissed concerns about global warming, stating in a video posted to his LinkedIn account last year, “There is no climate crisis, and we’re not in the midst of an energy transition either.” He has also argued that the source of energy does not matter as long as it is “secure, reliable, affordable, and betters human lives.”

Under Wright’s leadership, Liberty Energy has focused on providing hydraulic fracturing (fracking) services to oil and gas companies, a process that has significantly increased domestic oil production. Fracking has been pivotal in making the United States the world’s largest producer of oil, a position that Trump and his supporters view as a major achievement for American energy independence. Wright’s expertise and advocacy for expanding fracking are likely to be central to his tenure as Energy Secretary.

In addition to his appointment as Energy Secretary, Wright will also join the newly formed Council of National Energy, a group that the Trump campaign says will play a crucial role in advancing the nation’s energy policy. Trump stated that the council’s mission would be to oversee the country’s path toward “energy dominance” by reducing regulations and promoting private sector investment across all sectors of the economy. The creation of this council underscores Wright’s pivotal role in Trump’s broader energy agenda.

Wright’s previous work, particularly with Pinnacle Technologies, a company he founded before Liberty Energy, was cited by the Trump campaign as instrumental in the fracking revolution. His work helped unlock vast reserves of oil and natural gas in shale deposits, dramatically increasing US production and reshaping the global energy landscape. For the fossil fuel industry, Wright’s appointment is seen as a significant win, particularly as the sector anticipates favorable policies under the incoming administration.

Trump has long expressed his intention to prioritize fossil fuel production over renewable energy sources like wind and solar. His administration has championed domestic energy exploration and extraction, including efforts to open new areas for oil drilling, such as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Trump has argued that increased domestic production will lower energy prices and boost US economic growth, positioning the country as an energy powerhouse.

During his first term in office, Trump took a number of steps that furthered this agenda, including rolling back a wide range of environmental protections. One of the most significant moves was his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change, a global pact aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The decision to exit the accord was a controversial one, drawing widespread criticism from environmental groups and international leaders. However, it was celebrated by those in the fossil fuel sector, who argued that the accord placed unnecessary restrictions on energy production.

Wright’s appointment as Energy Secretary is expected to further the Trump administration’s commitment to fossil fuel expansion. By focusing on reducing regulatory barriers, increasing investment in traditional energy sources, and cutting environmental red tape, Wright will likely play a central role in the administration’s energy strategy.

For critics, however, the choice of Wright is seen as part of a broader push to continue prioritizing fossil fuels despite the growing evidence of climate change and the urgent calls for cleaner energy sources. The appointment signals a shift away from renewable energy investments and raises questions about the future of environmental protection and climate action in the United States.

As Energy Secretary, Wright’s approach to energy policy will be a critical aspect of Trump’s broader strategy for reshaping the country’s energy landscape and securing its position as an energy leader in the global market. His influence in the upcoming administration could significantly impact the future of US energy production, climate policy, and the transition to renewable energy sources.