Alabama Congressman Gary Palmer was identified as an influential figure in former President Donald Trump’s policy circle in a deep-dive report from The Wall Street Journal this morning.
According to their coverage, Rep. Palmer (R-Hoover) is playing a key role in a policy area expected to be a top priority for Trump as he lays the groundwork for a potential second term in office: Energy.
“Trump’s campaign has also developed a relationship with Rep. Gary Palmer (R., Ala.), chairman of the Republican Policy Committee, and has been discussing energy matters,” the WSJ reports.
It detailed a sense of how characteristically Trump’s policy circle is coming together.
“Trump’s policy development, like much of what he has brought to government, is unorthodox—a mix of his gut instincts and working style. He eschews traditional meetings and flowcharts, aides say, and instead draws on his experience in business and direct conversations with an extended network of contacts of longtime friends, CEOs and people he has met in politics.”
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The campaign shares common DNA with his administration, particularly among those who have remained confidants. Ben Carson, Stephen Miller and John Ratcliffe are also named in the WSJ article along with Palmer.
Cliff Sims, who served as former Director of National Intelligence Ratclifee’s deputy director and special assistant to President Trump himself, said it’s no surprise Trump has gravitated toward Rep. Palmer’s expertise.
“Plenty of members of Congress come to the White House for photo opps but Gary would quietly come in without fanfare to talk policy and try to get as many conservative wins as possible. He never cared who got the credit,” Sims said.
“That’s why he’s become such a trusted ally of the president and the whole Trump team. Everyone respects his views and expertise on the issues; he’s earned an important seat at the table.”
Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
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