**Trump Selects Chris Wright for Top Energy Post, Sparking Climate Policy Controversy**

In a bold move that may shape the future of U.S. energy and climate policy, President-elect Donald Trump has announced Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy and a vocal critic of mainstream climate science, as his pick for Secretary of Energy. The nomination aligns with Trump's aggressive agenda to revive the fossil fuel industry and cut back on environmental regulations.

Trump praised Wright as a pivotal figure in what has been termed the American Shale Revolution, describing him as a leader who will drive innovation and reduce bureaucratic obstacles. Wright, an MIT alumnus, has been lauded for advancing fracking techniques that have transformed the natural gas landscape in the U.S.

Wright's appointment has drawn significant attention not just for his professional credentials but also for his stance on climate change. A vocal skeptic, Wright has dismissed the concept of a climate crisis and has criticized policies aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependency. He operates a foundation dedicated to countering the mainstream narrative on climate change and advocating for enhanced fossil fuel production.

Wright's views are in stark contrast to those of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which has warned of severe global warming consequences without a substantial transition to sustainable energy sources. Despite scientific consensus on rising temperatures and sea levels, Wright contends these developments are exaggerated.

The nomination also holds political undertones, influenced by oil magnate Harold Hamm, a close Trump ally. Hamm has endorsed Wright as a top choice for the role. Wright has also been a significant financial supporter of Trump's campaigns, donating over $273,000 through various channels and co-hosting fundraising events.

Critics have voiced concern over Wright's selection, arguing it prioritizes fossil fuel interests over urgent climate action. Tiernan Sittenfeld from the League of Conservation Voters condemned the appointment, describing it as a fulfillment of Trump's financial commitments to the oil industry.

If confirmed, Wright will oversee the allocation of federal subsidies and loan guarantees related to energy, as well as the U.S. nuclear arsenal and domestic nuclear energy sector. His track record suggests a potential rollback of incentives for clean energy, which could affect initiatives such as electric vehicle adoption and investments in green hydrogen.

In a concurrent announcement, Trump also named North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum as the Interior Secretary and head of the newly established National Energy Council, designed to oversee all facets of American energy production and regulation. Burgum, unlike Wright, has shown some support for carbon neutrality, dependent on emerging technologies like carbon capture and storage.

The nominations and the policies they may herald could lead to significant shifts in America's energy strategy, with substantial implications for domestic and global environmental goals. As Wright steps into this pivotal role, the balance between fostering energy innovation and addressing climate change remains a contentious battleground.