“‘What He Is Saying Is Flat Out Wrong’: Trump’s Energy Secretary Pick Chris Wright Faces Backlash from Climate Scientists Over Climate Change Denial

President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Energy, oil executive Chris Wright, is facing significant pushback from climate scientists over his views on global warming. Wright, who has repeatedly dismissed the dangers of manmade climate change, has come under fire for allegedly misrepresenting scientific studies to support his claims.

The Washington Post reports that Wright has long touted studies suggesting that the warming planet may have beneficial effects, such as fewer deaths due to cold weather. He has also pointed to research indicating that rising global temperatures haven’t led to more intense hurricanes or other natural disasters. However, several scientists involved in the studies Wright has cited argue that he has twisted their findings to suit his own narrative.

Jim Kossin, a climate scientist who contributed to the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, criticized Wright’s interpretation, stating, “What he is saying is flat out wrong.” Kossin and other researchers assert that Wright has “cherry-picked” data that downplay the threats of climate change while ignoring key findings that underscore the grave risks posed by global warming.

These criticisms are particularly concerning because of the significant influence Wright would have on U.S. climate policy if confirmed as Energy Secretary. The Department of Energy is responsible for regulating the fossil fuel industry, funding energy research, and overseeing the future of the nation’s electric power distribution. As Energy Secretary, Wright would have the power to advance Trump’s agenda, which includes rolling back clean energy subsidies and curbing environmental protections.

Beyond his controversial views on climate change, Wright is also known for his penchant for showmanship. In one notorious incident, he posted a video of himself drinking fracking fluid to demonstrate that it posed no health risks—a stunt that raised eyebrows and further fueled concerns about his fitness for the role.

As the Post notes, Wright’s approach to climate science and energy policy is at odds with the growing consensus among scientists and environmental advocates about the urgency of addressing climate change. His nomination has sparked a fierce debate about the future of U.S. energy policy and the country’s commitment to addressing environmental issues.