Trump Appoints Democrat as Interim FERC Chairman Amidst Pending Nominations

President Donald Trump has appointed David Rosner, a Democrat, as the interim Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), following the departure of Republican Chairman Mark Christie on August 8, 2025. Rosner, who has served as a FERC Commissioner since June 2024, brings nearly two decades of experience in energy technologies, market design, and energy policy. (ferc.gov)

FERC is an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for regulating the interstate transmission and wholesale sale of electricity and natural gas, as well as overseeing the prices of interstate transport of petroleum by pipeline. The commission also reviews proposals to build interstate natural gas pipelines, natural gas storage projects, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, in addition to licensing non-federal hydropower projects. Established in 1977, FERC is composed of five commissioners who are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, with no more than three commissioners from the same political party serving simultaneously. (en.wikipedia.org)

Rosner's appointment is expected to be temporary. President Trump has nominated two Republicans, Laura Swett and David LeCerte, who are awaiting Senate confirmation. If confirmed, these appointments would shift the commission to a 3-2 Republican majority. (reuters.com)

Laura Swett is an energy attorney at Vinson & Elkins, with experience representing pipeline and power companies before FERC. She has also served as an adviser to previous Republican leadership at the agency. Swett's nomination requires Senate confirmation, where Republicans currently hold the majority, and her term would extend through June 2030. (reuters.com)

David LeCerte is a principal White House liaison and senior advisor to the director of the Office of Personnel Management. He has been nominated by President Trump to serve as a FERC Commissioner and is awaiting Senate confirmation. (ogj.com)

The appointment of a Democrat as FERC Chairman by a Republican president is notable and may reflect a strategic approach to ensure continuity and stability within the commission during the transition period. However, the anticipated shift to a Republican majority could lead to changes in FERC's regulatory approach, potentially affecting policies related to energy infrastructure, market design, and the integration of renewable energy sources.

FERC has experienced shifts in political composition in the past, often aligning with the administration's energy policies. The current transition reflects the ongoing political dynamics influencing energy regulation in the United States.

Rosner's appointment reflects the ongoing political dynamics influencing energy regulation in the United States. The energy sector awaits the Senate's decision on the pending nominations and the potential policy shifts that may follow.