President Trump views energy, technology, and environmental policy largely through the lens of manufacturing, infrastructure, and trade: his ultimate goal is to support and maintain America’s competitive edge in industry. Contrary to popular perception, President Trump does support clean energy and innovation, particularly based on the rationales of national security and manufacturing competitiveness—for example, President Trump is highly supportive of hydropower and nuclear energy. Considering these broader priorities will be crucial to more accurately understanding the Trump administration’s decisionmaking on energy, technology, and environmental issues.
