Energy nominee highlights nuclear weapons experience
Source: The Hill
Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall told senators Thursday that she has vast experience with defense and nuclear weapons, which would be a major part of her responsibilities as the second highest-ranking official at the Department of Energy (DOE).
At her confirmation hearing in front of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Sherwood-Randall made it clear that she is committed to DOE’s domestic energy missions as well. She is currently one of President Obama’s top advisors for defense.
“Along with our uniquely capable military, our energy resources will be an essential source of our strength in the 21st century — especially given the changing global energy landscape,” Sherwood-Randall said. “The revolution in American oil and natural gas production is helping fuel our economic growth and enhance our energy security. At the same time, energy innovation drives our competitiveness and positions us to continue to lead the world.”
Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Brent Scowcroft, a retired Air Force lieutenant general who has advised presidents on defense, both spoke on her behalf to explain that while Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz’s strength is in energy research and DOE’s domestic missions, Sherwood-Randall would excel in the agency’s defense missions. DOE is tasked with maintaining the country’s nuclear weapons, reducing proliferation of nuclear weapons around the world and other roles.
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Read more: http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/213240-energy-nominee-highlights-nuclear-weapons-experience