Commissioner Bernard L. McNamee Statement
January 23, 2020
Regarding His Decision Not To Seek Reappointment
As most of you know, my term as a Commissioner on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ends this June 30, 2020.
There has been some speculation as to whether I would be seeking another term.
This is one of the most interesting and rewarding jobs I have ever had. I have enjoyed the work, the issues, and the people. In short, I have loved this job; but I love my family more.
I have been blessed with an exciting career as a practicing energy attorney and as a policy advisor and legal counsel in various government positions. In fact, almost half of my career has been in public service. Whether it was in the Virginia Governor’s Office, the Virginia or Texas Attorney General Office, the United States Senate, the U.S. Department of Energy, and, now the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission—each job has been a great opportunity to serve the public, work with smart and interesting people, and to learn. I will have spent almost 4 and one-half years—between the Senate, DOE and FERC—working and living in DC during the week—while my wife, my son and my mortgage reside in Richmond, Virginia. It is time to go home.
I will not be checking out right away. There is a lot of work to be done by the Commission between now and the end of my term—and I will be fully engaged. Furthermore, though I do not know what I will do after leaving the Commission, I anticipate I will continue to be active in addressing the important energy issues facing our nation.
I am very grateful that President Trump appointed me to this position and that the Senate confirmed me. Though many people have encouraged me to seek another term, I have informed the White House that I will not seek reappointment. I will serve through the end of my term—or later as permitted— and if needed.
Though I will say my formal goodbyes later, I want to thank all of those who have supported me through the years. I especially want to acknowledge my friends at the Department of Energy and Senator Cruz. I also thank my team—Tegan Flynn, Travis Fisher, Carolyn Clarkin, Kathleen Benard, Hannah Dirks—and former members of Team McNamee—Jim Cunningham and Laura Swett—for all of their hard work and sound counsel.
I also thank my colleagues Commissioner Glick and Commissioner LaFleur, as well as the excellent FERC employees. And I want to thank Chairman Chatterjee for his strong leadership, friendship and support.
Most of all, I thank my wife, Libby, and my son, Sam, for all of their love and support.