WASHINGTON, D.C.: Donald Trump's nominee for the Interior Department, Doug Burgum, has said that he would work hard to achieve the president-elect's goals of increasing energy production from public lands and waters, which he believes is vital for national security.

During his Senate hearing, Burgum signaled a significant shift in policy compared to President Biden's efforts to limit oil and gas drilling. Biden had tried to reduce federal lease auctions and ban future offshore drilling to combat climate change.

Burgum argued that the U.S. produces energy more cleanly and safely than other countries. He said restricting American energy production doesn't lower demand but shifts it to countries like Russia, Venezuela, and Iran, where environmental concerns are not a priority. He also stated that increasing energy production can lower costs for consumers while still protecting air and water quality.

The Interior Department manages large areas of public lands and offshore waters, which account for about a quarter of U.S. oil and gas production. Thanks to technological advancements and global demand, the U.S. is already the world's largest oil and gas producer, with much of the drilling happening on private lands in states like Texas and New Mexico.

If confirmed, Burgum plans to expand drilling leases on public lands and streamline permits to speed up energy projects. He stressed the need to balance renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, with steady power from natural gas plants to prevent power outages. "If the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing, we need reliable backup power," he explained.

Burgum also criticized President Biden's push for electric vehicles, claiming it increases reliance on minerals imported from China. As the former governor of North Dakota, which is a leading oil and wind energy producer, Burgum is also being considered to lead a national council to boost U.S. energy production under Trump.

When asked about wind energy, Burgum avoided giving a direct answer. Trump has opposed the industry, arguing it is costly and harms marine life. North Dakota ranks third in U.S. oil production, behind Texas and New Mexico.