WASHINGTON (WBAP/KLIF News) – Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry is a step closer to becoming U.S. Energy Secretary. Tuesday Perry received the 16-7 approval of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and is expected to be confirmed by the full chamber despite some concerns among environmentalists and some democrats over his ties to the Texas oil industry.
The Dallas Morning News reports Perry received the approval of all republicans on the panel plus three democrats and one independent, Sen. Angus King of Maine.
During hours of testimony Perry disagreed with President Donald Trump’s position on climate change, saying he believes it is real and partly man made. He also disavowed an administration memo appearing to threaten the positions of Energy Department employees who work on climate change issues.
Texas Senator John Cornyn issued a statement supporting the former governor saying, “Under Rick Perry’s leadership, Texas experienced innovative growth in our energy sector, which translated to more jobs and lower prices for families across our state. I’m confident he’ll replicate this success at a national level and help launch the next great era in American energy production.”
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