**Trump Appoints Doug Burgum as Head of New National Energy Council**

In a significant move to bolster U.S. energy production and cut regulatory red tape, President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Doug Burgum to lead the newly established National Energy Council. Burgum, the current governor of North Dakota, will also hold a seat on the National Security Council, tasked with advancing the nation’s energy dominance.

The creation of this National Energy Council is a pivotal element of Trump's campaign promise to boost energy production across the United States. According to Trump, the council will oversee a comprehensive effort dubbed "drill, baby, drill," aimed at increasing various energy outputs and ensuring U.S. allies receive a steady supply of energy. The council will also work to enhance the country's electricity supplies to reduce consumer costs and support the burgeoning number of energy-intensive AI data centers.

Trump highlighted that the new council will incorporate all departments and agencies involved in the myriad aspects of American energy, including permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation, and transportation. The council’s mission, as per Trump, is to guarantee that America is equipped to meet its energy demands without facing disruptions like blackouts and brownouts. Additionally, the council will focus on securing an edge in AI superiority, which Trump deems crucial for both national security and economic prosperity.

Burgum, a self-made multimillionaire, was initially hesitant to assume the role of an "energy czar." However, this new position at the helm of the council provides him with significant authority by combining the influence of a cabinet position with extensive oversight across multiple agencies.

Bob McNally, president of the energy consulting firm Rapidan Energy Group, remarked, “There was buzz about Trump having an energy czar. We just saw a czar appointed.” He also noted that the formation of such a council is reminiscent of previous White House efforts to coordinate policy across the government, though it may spark tensions between Burgum and other department heads.

"Anytime you establish a policy coordination body at the White House, there will be natural tension with principles in agencies," added McNally. "It's like herding cats a little bit, but it should minimize tensions so you either get to consensus or tee up pros and cons for the president to make a decision."

This new initiative is expected to significantly impact the U.S.’s energy strategy and fortify the country’s position on the global energy stage.