Climate protesters heckle Trump energy nominee, while Dem senator labels him an "enthusiast for fossil fuels."

Numerous climate activists interrupted the energy appointment proceeding.

Climate protesters heckle Trump energy nominee, while Dem senator labels him an "enthusiast for fossil fuels."
Climate protesters heckle Trump energy nominee, while Dem senator labels him an "enthusiast for fossil fuels."

During his nomination hearing, President-elect Trump's energy secretary was questioned by lawmakers about climate change, the Los Angeles wildfires, and the Biden administration's green energy agenda. Several climate protesters disrupted the hearing.

On Wednesday, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee conducted a confirmation hearing for Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy Inc. and Trump's nominee for Energy Department head, which coincided with his birthday.

A Democratic senator from Colorado, John Hickenlooper, introduced the Trump nominee and characterized him as an ardent supporter of fossil fuels. During his speech, Wright emphasized the importance of energy dominance, acknowledging the reality of climate change, global energy demand, and his commitment to expanding energy resources.

In his opening statement, Wright stated that America has a historic opportunity to secure its energy systems, lead in scientific and technological innovation, manage its weapons stockpiles, and fulfill its Cold War legacy waste commitments.

Chris Wright closeup shot from testifying before Senate
Chris Wright speaks during a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (Al Drago/Getty Images)

If confirmed, Wright has identified three "immediate tasks" where he will concentrate his efforts: liberating American energy, spearheading global innovation and technological advancements, and boosting American production.

If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to implement President Trump's bold agenda as an unabashed steward for all sources of affordable, reliable and secure American energy, Wright stated to the committee.

Sen. Steve Daines of Montana, a Republican, focused his questioning on Biden administration policies, including a ban on LNG exports, regulations on household appliances, and the recent blocking of drilling along the coast.

Democratic senators accused Sen. Mike Lee of scheduling a confirmation hearing without all necessary paperwork on Wright, while other Democrats claimed the Los Angeles fires were caused by "climate change."

Donald Trump
President-elect Trump during a campaign rally at the PPG Paints Arena on Nov. 4, 2024, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., stated during the hearing that the misinformation circulating about the fires in the Capitol, California, and other areas is unfounded. However, it is clear that the fires have reached their size and scale due to unseasonably dry vegetation and extremely high winds, which are both direct results of climate change.

Wright stated that climate change is a "genuine concern."

"For at least 20 years, I have studied and followed the data and evolution of climate change. It is a global issue that requires a solution. Wright believes that the solution to climate change lies in evolving our energy system."

On Wednesday, climate change protesters were recorded by Planet Chronicle Digital disrupting Senator John Wright's hearing.

climate protester holding sign above his head
A protester holds up a "Big Oil Profits LA Burns" banner as Chris Wright testifies during his confirmation hearing in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (Bill Clark)

During the questioning of Wright, one protester rose and inquired about the effectiveness of his policies in extinguishing the flames in LA.

Another protester who was removed from the hearing room said, "Are you going to ask any questions or just softball on the climate this entire time?"

Climate protesters with "I won't let my future burn" shirts were positioned outside the hearing room, in addition to several others.

by Aubrie Spady

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