Trump’s DOE and DOT picks may reshape EV policies

President-elect Donald Trump’s choices for the Department of Energy and the Department of Transportation could challenge Biden-era electric vehicle initiatives, which are worth billions.

David Ferris and Mike Lee report for E&E News.


In short:

  • Chris Wright, a fracking executive, and Sean Duffy, a former congressman, are critical of EVs and may curb federal support for the industry.
  • Key programs like EV charging networks and battery manufacturing loans are partially shielded, but some initiatives remain vulnerable to cuts or delays.
  • The administration could promote hybrids or other fuels while underfunding EV-focused initiatives, shifting the industry’s trajectory.

Key quote:

“The question remains: Will the red states who are benefiting from these programs say they want to continue?”

— Alan Baum, Michigan auto analyst

Why this matters:

Federal EV programs have spurred clean energy innovation and reduced vehicle emissions. Curtailing these efforts could slow progress against climate change and disrupt investments in cleaner transportation technologies, impacting public health and the environment.

Related: Trump criticizes electric vehicles with stark language

A maintenance worker wearing black standing in front of solar panels

New solar installations in Nevada fell dramatically in 2025

Nevada solar installations dropped sharply last year as Trump administration policies prioritized fossil fuels and limited renewable energy growth.

A view of solar panels and wind turbines with the sunset in the distance

Spain’s renewables revolution will keep energy bills low even as gas prices soar

Spain spent the last six years investing heavily in wind and solar energy, leading to some of the cheapest power prices in Europe.
A Black man pouring water on his neck on a hot day

The planet is overheating. Why is the news looking away?

Since 2021, global media coverage of climate change has dropped 38 percent. Blame wars, political chaos, and Jeffrey Epstein.
A worker walking among solar panels

EPA oversight office finds ‘no issues’ with Biden-era environmental justice program

Community Change grants, which the Trump administration canceled last year, funded solar-powered greenhouses, composting, and community gardens.

The New Mexico state building in Santa Fe

Climate chilled at New Mexico legislature — again

New Mexico lawmakers again rejected a greenhouse gas reduction bill while approving public funds to address oil and gas problems like abandoned wells and earthquakes.

A family having a picnic in a greenfield

The psychological distance between us and climate disaster

An analysis of dozens of previously published studies reveals people systematically underestimate their own vulnerability to climate threats.
Petrochemical plant in twilight
Credit: Aunging/BigStock Photo ID: 198653959

Civil rights case probes racism behind Cancer Alley pollution

Federal lawsuit claiming local officials illegally pushed polluting industries into Black communities reaches new stage.
From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.