In a potential second term for Trump, some familiar faces from his first administration could return to oversee key energy and environmental agencies. Several former officials who have worked with Trump previously are being considered for remarkable roles, including those who supported his campaign efforts.
Andrew Wheeler, who led the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after Scott Pruitt’s resignation in 2018, reportedly helped Trump prepare for debates with President Biden, while former Interior Secretary David Bernhardt also contributed to the campaign’s energy discussions over the summer.
Andrew Wheeler, ex-coal lobbyist, might again influence environmental regulation rollbacks
Dan Brouillette, who served as Energy Secretary under Trump after Rick Perry’s departure, is another figure who may return to a prominent position. He recently stepped down from his role at the electric utility lobbying group Edison Electric Institute.
Other potential candidates include North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, who is seen as a strong possibility for a major energy role in the next administration. Burgum’s track record in energy policy, particularly in North Dakota, positions him as a key player in shaping the nation’s future energy strategy.
A closer look at these individuals reveals a wealth of experience. Andrew Wheeler, for example, played a pivotal role in rolling back environmental regulations, including looser standards for power plants and vehicles.
His past as a lobbyist, including for coal company Murray Energy, also adds to his qualifications. Former Trump EPA spokesperson Jahan Wilcox believes Wheeler’s return would benefit the agency, citing his ability to execute Trump’s environmental agenda without controversy.
David Bernhardt, who led the Interior Department during Trump’s first term, is known for his work expanding oil and gas drilling on public lands. After leaving the administration, he joined Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck and the America First Policy Institute, further embedding himself in Trump’s orbit. His recent involvement in a Trump campaign press conference on energy policy suggests he remains a key figure in shaping energy discourse.
Dan Brouillette’s tenure at the Energy Department saw continued focus on energy production and security. After his time in the Trump administration, Brouillette joined Edison Electric Institute but is now preparing to step away from that role.
His experience both in government and the private sector makes him a highly qualified candidate for future positions, potentially even in national security or intelligence, according to former colleagues.
Governor Doug Burgum of North Dakota, previously considered for Trump’s vice president, is now thought to be a prime candidate for an energy-related position. His leadership in a state rich in oil and gas production, as well as his vision for achieving net-zero emissions through carbon capture, aligns with Trump’s energy priorities.
Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota has also mentioned that Trump considered Burgum for the role of Energy Secretary as early as a year ago. Other outstanding figures in the mix include Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, who has been rumored for positions in the Interior or Energy Departments. Despite these speculations, Dunleavy’s spokesperson confirmed he intends to remain Governor of Alaska, though that could change in the future.
Additionally, Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, a leading voice on public lands issues, has previously expressed interest in roles within the Interior Department, though she has not pursued them as aggressively this time.
Mark Menezes, who served as deputy Energy Secretary, has not ruled out a return to the department, though he currently leads the United States Energy Association. His future in the Trump administration remains uncertain but could involve an important role given his expertise in energy policy.
