U.S. Senate Confirms Energy Secretary Nominee

Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch voted in favor of Energy Secretary Nominee, Dr. Ernest Moniz.  Dr. Moniz was confirmed by the full Senate this afternoon with a unanimous vote of 97-0.

"Idaho plays an important role in the United States' energy policy, and Dr. Moniz demonstrated to me that he is qualified to serve in this key role," Crapo said.  "As someone who grew up in eastern Idaho, I have witnessed firsthand the significant role the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) plays in nuclear energy research and I will continue to advocate policies that maintain its position as the lead nuclear laboratory for research and development.  For sixty years, the INL has built, operated and tested 51 nuclear reactors leading to key defense and homeland security initiatives, and has also provided thousands of jobs and increased economic development to the region.  The Department of Energy should fully engage the INL to provide confirmatory research on materials science, reactor fuel, instrumentation and controls, safety margins and efficiency instruments.  Dr. Moniz indicated that he fully understands the importance of the INL and will make it a strong priority in his new role."   

"I look forward to working with Dr. Moniz to ensure the INL and cleanup projects are given the priority within the Department of Energy that they deserve," said Risch.

Dr. Ernest Moniz has served on the faculty of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology since 1973, with a research focus on energy technology and policy.  He also served in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) during the Clinton administration.  Dr. Moniz was reported out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee with a 21-1 vote.  Risch, who serves on the committee, voted in favor of advancing Dr. Moniz's nomination to the full Senate.