Energy Secretary Nominee Faces Senate Confirmation Hearing

Energy secretary nominee Dr. Ernest Moniz answered questions from members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee during the confirmation hearing yesterday. Moniz, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with past experience as a Obama and Clinton administration advisor and Department of Energy undersecretary, was asked questions about his position on issues from natural gas exports to nuclear waste and the use of renewable energy in the United States. While some environmental groups criticize Moniz for his support of hydraulic fracturing and greater natural gas development, most experts say his nomination isn't expected to garner much opposition. Ranking committee member Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) called Moniz "a rare nominee that generates bipartisan support" in her opening comments.