Trump Nominates Burgum and Wright for Cabinet

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to lead the Department of the Interior and Liberty Energy CEO Chris Wright to head the Department of Energy, both of whom are expected to prioritize U.S. energy independence and reduce regulatory overreach. Burgum's appointment has drawn support from conservative environmentalists, who praise his knowledge of conservation and energy innovation, while also expressing a desire to responsibly manage public lands. In contrast, Wright's nomination has sparked controversy due to his strong advocacy for fossil fuels and fracking, raising concerns among environmental advocates about a potential regression in climate policy. Critics argue that both appointments signal a return to fossil fuel partnerships despite environmental consequences. Furthermore, former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin has been nominated to run the EPA, where his past support for environmental initiatives has elicited mixed reactions from advocacy groups. As the administration prepares to shift focus on energy production, the implications for climate regulation remain contentious.