WASHINGTON DC (2/4/25) – The U.S. Senate has confirmed three key nominees to serve in President Donald Trump’s administration, marking a significant step forward in advancing the administration’s energy and natural resource policies. As part of our American Energy Scorecard, the American Energy Alliance will score the confirmation votes for each nominee.
Tom Pyle, President of the American Energy Alliance, issued the following statement on the confirmations:
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to unleash American energy and strengthen our nation’s energy economy. With the confirmation of Chris Wright, Lee Zeldin, and Doug Burgum, experienced and committed leaders now will be at the helm of critical agencies. Under their leadership, we will continue to ensure that the United States remains the world’s energy superpower, providing jobs, security, and economic growth for all Americans.
“For the past four years, the American Energy Alliance has worked to push back against the restrictive policies of the Biden administration. We are excited to see a new team in place that is focused on a comprehensive energy strategy—one that prioritizes affordable, reliable, and abundant energy for the American people. Our team has provided a Blueprint to ensure that these goals remain front and center throughout this administration, ensuring energy policy serves the needs of all Americans.”
Chris Wright Confirmed as Energy Secretary
On Monday, the Senate confirmed Chris Wright as the next Secretary of Energy. With a vote of 59-38, Wright, a seasoned executive in the fracking industry, secured broad bipartisan support, including seven Democrats and one Independent who caucuses with them. As Energy Secretary, Wright will lead the charge to ensure the United States remains a global energy leader and continues to expand its energy production capabilities.
Lee Zeldin Confirmed as EPA Administrator
Last Wednesday, the Senate confirmed former Congressman Lee Zeldin as the 17th Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Zeldin, who represented New York’s first congressional district in the House of Representatives, was approved with a strong bipartisan vote. He will now oversee the EPA’s efforts to safeguard the nation’s environment while balancing the need for energy production and economic growth. Three Democrats—Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ)—joined all 53 Republicans in confirming Zeldin.
Doug Burgum Confirmed as Interior Secretary
Last Thursday, the Senate confirmed Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior. The former Governor of North Dakota, who was tapped by President Trump to drive the administration’s energy abundance agenda, received overwhelming Senate support with a 79-18 vote. More than half of Senate Democrats joined all 53 Republicans in backing Burgum’s nomination. As Interior Secretary, Burgum will lead the department’s efforts to expand domestic energy production, manage public lands, and ensure the development of the nation’s natural resources.
AEA Experts Available For Interview On This Topic:
Additional Background Resources From AEA:
| For media inquiries please contact: THOMAS.PYLE@ENERGYDC.ORG |