Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed his support for Chris Wright's nomination as Secretary of Energy in a speech delivered on the Senate floor. Thune highlighted Wright's extensive experience in various energy sectors and praised his innovative contributions to the industry.

Thune noted that the confirmation of Wright would complete President Trump's energy team, following recent confirmations of Lee Zeldin as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior.

Thune emphasized America's abundance of resources and the importance of leveraging them for energy security. He stated, "One of the most important resources is America’s ability to innovate – the knowledge and capabilities we have to expand the realm of possibility."

Wright, who describes himself as "a science geek turned energy nerd turned lifelong energy entrepreneur," has a diverse background in nuclear energy, solar, geothermal, wind power, oil, and natural gas. Thune remarked on Wright's passion for energy and his readiness to contribute to national progress.

Senator Hickenlooper also endorsed Wright, describing him as "a scientist who is open to discussion" with an ability to assess possibilities realistically. Thune concluded by expressing optimism about what Wright could achieve for America's energy future.