President-Elect Donald Trump has announced key cabinet and administration appointments, which could positively impact West Virginia. Two major areas of focus for the state—broadband access and energy development—are directly tied to these nominations.
West Virginia struggles with one of the nation’s worst broadband coverages, affecting services like telehealth. Brendan Carr, a Federal Communications Commission FCC member who has worked on addressing broadband issues in the state, has been nominated as FCC chairman.
In the energy sector, Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, has been nominated for Secretary of Energy. Wright is a strong supporter of coal, oil, natural gas, and fracking, industries critical to West Virginia’s economy.
“These appointments are very significant,” said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito R-WV. “We’ve been focused on rural broadband, but West Virginia also has the potential to contribute significantly to the energy economy, bringing jobs, technology, and research opportunities.”
While Carr’s promotion to FCC chairman does not require Senate approval, Wright’s nomination as energy secretary does. However, with the new Senate holding a 53-47 Republican majority, his confirmation is expected to proceed smoothly.
No timeline has been set for these or other cabinet appointments.