Senate Hears Nominees Laura Sweatt and David Lacerte for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
September 04, 2025 | Energy and Natural Resources: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources convened on September 4, 2025, to consider the nominations of Laura Sweatt and David Lacerte to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This independent agency plays a crucial role in overseeing the nation's energy supply, ensuring the reliable transmission of electricity and transportation of natural gas and oil.
Chairman of the committee highlighted the importance of FERC in maintaining America's energy dominance, stating that the commission's effective functioning directly impacts the affordability of energy for families and the growth of businesses. He emphasized the need for the nominees to reverse the course set by the previous administration, which he claimed led to increased energy costs and regulatory delays for critical infrastructure projects.
Laura Sweatt, currently serving as energy and litigation counsel at a law firm, has extensive experience with FERC, having previously worked as a senior legal adviser to former FERC chairman Kevin McIntyre. David Lacerte, a combat veteran and former special counsel, brings a wealth of experience from both state and federal levels, including leadership roles in energy litigation and environmental safety.
The committee's discussions underscored the significance of FERC's independence from political influence, with ranking member Senator Heinrich stressing that the commission must operate impartially to serve the public interest. Both nominees are expected to address how they will uphold this independence while navigating the evolving energy landscape.
As the hearing progressed, the committee sought to understand the nominees' priorities and their commitment to ensuring affordable and reliable energy for all Americans. The stakes are high, as the decisions made by FERC will shape the future of the nation's energy policy and its economic stability. The committee's evaluation of Sweatt and Lacerte will determine if they are fit to lead FERC during this critical time.
Chairman of the committee highlighted the importance of FERC in maintaining America's energy dominance, stating that the commission's effective functioning directly impacts the affordability of energy for families and the growth of businesses. He emphasized the need for the nominees to reverse the course set by the previous administration, which he claimed led to increased energy costs and regulatory delays for critical infrastructure projects.
Laura Sweatt, currently serving as energy and litigation counsel at a law firm, has extensive experience with FERC, having previously worked as a senior legal adviser to former FERC chairman Kevin McIntyre. David Lacerte, a combat veteran and former special counsel, brings a wealth of experience from both state and federal levels, including leadership roles in energy litigation and environmental safety.
The committee's discussions underscored the significance of FERC's independence from political influence, with ranking member Senator Heinrich stressing that the commission must operate impartially to serve the public interest. Both nominees are expected to address how they will uphold this independence while navigating the evolving energy landscape.
As the hearing progressed, the committee sought to understand the nominees' priorities and their commitment to ensuring affordable and reliable energy for all Americans. The stakes are high, as the decisions made by FERC will shape the future of the nation's energy policy and its economic stability. The committee's evaluation of Sweatt and Lacerte will determine if they are fit to lead FERC during this critical time.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting