Senate Confirmation Hearings for Trump Cabinet Picks Continue

Senate confirmation hearings continued Thursday for incoming President Donald Trump’s cabinet picks.

Doug Burgum: Nominated for Interior Secretary, the former North Dakota governor insisted Trump’s intentions to boost U.S. energy production would deprive nations Russia and Iran of oil and gas revenue. Burgum said he “believes that climate change is a global phenomenon” but mentioned problems with overreliance on solar and wind energy.

Scott Bessent: Nominated for Treasury Secretary, the former hedge fund manager and Trump campaign economic advisor said extending Republicans' 2017 tax cuts “is the single most important economic issue of the day.” Bessent believes that without the extension, we face “economic calamity,” especially for “middle-class people.”

Lee Zeldin: Nominated for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administration, the New York Republican promised to protect the environment “while also protecting our economy.” Zeldin acknowledged climate change while stating that the American public seeks "pragmatic, common-sense solutions," alluding to fossil fuels.

Scott Turner: Nominated for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary, the former Texas State Representative said his work would center around “things that my family and I have experienced through the years,” and described his wife’s past reliance on government assistance and a family member’s struggle with homelessness.

Pam Bondi: Senators, on the second day of questioning, heard from witnesses chosen by both republicans and democrats, three of whom spoke in support of Bondi, and two expressing concerns.

How The Media Covered It: Outlets across the political spectrum highlighted the fact that two of Trump’s cabinet picks believe climate change is real, however, USA Today (Lean Left bias) highlighted Zeldin’s lack of commitment to rolling back Biden administration electric vehicle regulations. Outlets on the right, like Fox News (Right) focused on Bessent’s calls for extension of tax cuts, but failed to mention any criticisms posed against the idea.