Energy Secretary says admin will treat climate change as ‘a side effect of building the modern world’

President Donald Trump’s energy chief, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, has pledged to reverse the “politically polarizing” climate policies put in place by the Biden administration. Speaking at an energy conference, Wright emphasized that the Trump administration views climate change as a “global physical phenomenon” rather than the “ultimate threat to humanity” as claimed by former President Joe Biden.

Wright, addressing attendees at the S&P Global’s CERAWeek conference in Houston, asserted that he is a “climate realist” and emphasized that the Trump administration will approach climate change as a side effect of building the modern world. This marks a significant shift in the administration’s stance on climate change, moving away from the alarmist rhetoric of the previous administration.

One of the key criticisms leveled by Wright against the Biden administration’s climate policies is their impact on consumer choice. He pointed out that mandates such as electric vehicle requirements and regulations on household appliances restrict consumer freedom. The Trump administration aims to prioritize lower costs and improved performance for household appliances, contrasting with the Biden administration’s approach.

Wright emphasized the need to end what he described as the “irrational, quasi-religious policies on climate change” that were implemented by the previous administration. He argued that these policies had negative economic consequences for businesses and citizens alike, portraying them as impoverishing and politically divisive. The Trump administration, according to Wright, is focused on serving the interests of the American people rather than catering to special interest groups.

During his speech, Wright announced the approval of an export permit extension for the Delfin LNG project, signaling the administration’s commitment to expanding energy production. This decision comes as part of Trump’s broader agenda to increase American energy independence and reduce reliance on foreign sources.

As Trump emphasizes “unleashing American energy” as a key priority for his second term, Wright’s remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to reevaluating and overturning the climate policies implemented by the Biden administration. The administration’s approach to climate change is grounded in a pragmatic view of the issue as a global phenomenon with complex implications for modern society.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Biden administration for comment on Wright’s statements but did not receive an immediate response. Aubrie Spady, a Writer for Fox News Digital, contributed to this report.