Walden Statement on Energy Secretary Rick Perry

Statement

Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) released the following statement on Energy Secretary Rick Perry's announcement that he will depart the Administration:

"Rick Perry's dedication to public service is hard to fully capture with brevity. A son of Texas and tenant farmers from Paint Creek, Rick Perry has worn the uniform of our nation as a C-130 pilot in the Air Force. He served the people of the Lone Star State as governor for 14 years, and has led the missions of the Department of Energy with vigor.

"Anyone who has the pleasure of meeting or working with Secretary Perry knows the enthusiasm and energy he brings to DOE. That is evident in his focus on harnessing the inventive spirit of the National Labs; using the boundless capabilities of AI to enhance energy delivery across the country; unleashing innovation in nuclear technology to safely power our communities and reduce emissions; and ensuring America remains a leader in nuclear security and energy dominance.

"I've witnessed firsthand Rick Perry's commitment to cleaning up nuclear waste from communities like Hanford, Washington, just north of my Oregon district. During our first visit to Hanford in 2017, just after he was sworn in, a woman approached Secretary Perry and, with tears in her eyes, told us both how critical the cleanup mission at the Hanford Site is to herself, her family, and her neighbors. Rick Perry knows the importance of the long-term commitment from DOE to protect these communities because he has talked to the people who call these communities home. I was proud to join Secretary Perry once again in October to commemorate progress made by the hardworking DOE workers at Hanford to fulfill a promise made many years ago.

"Personally, I'm happy to call Rick Perry a friend. A fellow Eagle Scout, Rick has been a great partner as we've tried to leave our campsite better than we found it. It was a pleasure to introduce the Secretary of Energy to my constituents, and show a true Texan the great value-added agriculture of Oregon's Second District -- like Hermiston watermelons!

"Secretary Perry, we wish you and Anita well in the extra time spent with your children and granddaughters, and thank you for your service," said Walden.

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