Staff Reports
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum is leading a high-powered team to push American energy projects forward. The National Energy Dominance Council acts like a “tiger team” – a small group of experts who cut through red tape to get stalled projects moving. This team answers directly to President Trump and includes top leaders from across the government.
The Council’s main job is to fix delays caused by years of bureaucratic slowdowns. They focus on projects crucial for national security, like pipelines, natural gas exports, and power sources needed for America’s tech race with China. Burgum says the goal is to sell energy to friends like Europe so they don’t rely on enemies like Russia. At home, cheaper energy will fight inflation and power new technologies like artificial intelligence.
Burgum compares the Council to a business task force. Instead of writing reports, they take action. For example, permits that used to take a decade could now wrap up in just a few years. This speed helps America outpace China in developing AI, which requires huge amounts of reliable electricity. The team also works to reopen closed power plants and approve natural gas pipelines to regions like New England and California.
The Council unites cabinet members who might have blocked projects in the past. Energy Secretary Chris Wright – a former industry leader – brings real-world experience to the table. Together, they’re reversing Biden-era rules that favored wind and solar over oil, gas, and coal. Burgum argues this balance is key to keeping lights on and factories running.
Environmental groups are furious, calling the moves a giveaway to oil companies. They worry protected lands and species will suffer. But Burgum says tribes support his approach, noting over 185 Native American groups backed his nomination. He promises to listen to local voices while expanding energy access.
High gas prices and unstable power grids drove Trump to declare a national energy emergency. Burgum’s orders fast-track drilling on federal lands, including Alaska’s untapped reserves. They also aim to break China’s grip on minerals like germanium, which are vital for computers and weapons.
Some critics claim there’s no real energy crisis, since America already produces record amounts of oil. But Burgum warns that Biden’s policies would’ve caused future shortages. By ramping up production now, he says the U.S. can pay down debt, create jobs, and prevent blackouts as AI spreads.
The tiger team’s mission ties energy to national strength. Cheaper power means factories stay open, families afford basics, and the military stays ahead of rivals. Burgum vows every decision will put America first – even if it means ignoring climate concerns he calls “ideological.” For supporters, it’s a return to common sense. For opponents, it’s a dangerous slide backward. Either way, the Council is moving fast.
