Fracking billionaire Harold Hamm co-chairs a nonprofit that aggressively pushes for US energy dominance, drawing scrutiny from climate advocates and lawmakers.
The Continental Resources founder has deep ties to Donald Trump, having donated over $2 million to his campaigns and organized a 2024 fundraiser where Trump reportedly sought $1 billion from oil executives.
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Now, attention is shifting to Hamm's hardline views on Israel, Iran, and energy markets—views Trump echoed during recent conflicts.
Council for a Secure America
Hamm relaunched the Council for a Secure America (CSA) in 2012, a Reagan-era nonprofit based in New York City.
The group includes US oil executives, former Israeli officials, and ex-White House officials who see domestic production as a national security asset.
CSA held at least 300 briefings with lawmakers from both parties in a 30-month period, according to annual reports.
Members also held off-the-record discussions with key US and Israeli security experts, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
Executive director Jennifer Sutton stated that CSA does not lobby for or against military actions but educates on energy security's strategic importance.
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Public Citizen's energy director Tyson Slocum said Hamm has unique sway over Trump, calling him the "oil whisperer" who speaks Trump's language and shares his worldview.
Slocum believes Hamm has moved Trump to positions he wouldn't have taken otherwise.
Policy Impacts and Criticism
Among Hamm's policy victories was the EPA's revocation of a key scientific finding underpinning climate rules.
Oil prices rose again as military exchanges continued, impacting American consumers.
Brown University researchers estimate Americans paid an extra $67 billion for fuel due to the conflict, while oil companies reported windfall profits.
Aaron Weiss of the Center for Western Priorities criticized the "energy dominance" narrative, saying it never meant cheaper prices for consumers but more oil for Hamm to export.
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Hamm expressed indifference toward the rising burden on drivers.
