Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios
President Trump plans to name David Rosner chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, a White House official told Axios Friday.
Why it matters: Rosner — a Democrat named to the commission by former President Biden — is a surprise pick to lead FERC, which also has a Biden-appointed Republican, Lindsay See.
- Rosner is a former aide to then-Sen. Joe Manchin who was tapped for FERC last year.
What they're saying: "David Rosner has committed to executing President Trump's America First energy policy agenda," the White House official said.
- Rosner has been instrumental in helping accelerate the building of power and data centers to win the AI race," the official said.
- Rosner's selection "emphasizes the president's desire to work with action-oriented people who will deliver positive results for Americans."
Zoom in: Rosner is seen as a centrist who supports natural gas development.
- Friends of the Earth launched a campaign against his nomination, arguing he favored fossil fuels too much.
Context: The president's selection comes as the White House exercises greater control over independent commissions.
- Former Republican Chair Mark Christie, who protected the commission from DOGE cuts for months, stepped down Friday.
Yes, but: Rosner's term as chair may be limited as the White House hopes to see two new Republican FERC nominees confirmed.
- The commission is currently controlled 2-1 by Democrats, but the two GOP nominees, Laura Swett and David LaCerte, will shift the balance of power and either could be designated chair.
