Democrats grill Energy Secretary on gas prices, funding for green energy programs

House Democrats pressed U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright on high gas prices and funding for green‑energy programs on Wednesday (April 15) at a hearing marked by tense moments.

"Excuse me, Mr. Secretary, I don't know what you're telling me. We're looking at gasoline prices go through the roof," U.S. Representative Rosa DiLauro (Democrat - Connecticut) said during a House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy hearing.

DiLauro asked the Wright whether he had raised concerns about a potential rise in energy prices following an attack on Iran.

"Of course", Wright said, adding, "I'll point out we're putting to end a 47-year conflict with a nation that's threatened peace, stability, American soldiers and global supply of energy..." Wright said.

"Sorry, I think you are living in a different world Mr. Chairman," DiLauro said.

Wright made news earlier in the week after saying oil prices were likely to continue rising until "meaningful" ship traffic resumed through the Strait of Hormuz.

Wright’s remarks at the Semafor World Economy forum in Washington stood in contrast to his previous comments predicting oil prices would ease in the near term.

-Deborah Gembara/Reuters