On April 22, Commissioner Willie Phillips stepped down from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), effective immediately, leaving a vacancy on the five-member body. Phillips, the most senior Democrat on the commission, served as Chairman under the Biden administration from 2023 to 2025. His term had been scheduled to run through June 30, 2026.
With his departure, FERC is now evenly split between two Democratic commissioners, Commissioner Rosner and Commissioner Chang, and two Republican commissioners, Chairman Christie and Commissioner See. Until a new commissioner is nominated and confirmed, the commission may face a 2-2 deadlock on more contentious matters.
Despite the vacancy, FERC will continue to operate with four members, though some actions may require a majority vote. Certain types of activity, such as routine filings and extensions, can still proceed. However, major decisions such as certificate approvals, enforcement orders, or new rulemakings require at least three affirmative votes. As such, the vacancy could limit the Commission’s ability to act on significant matters until the seat is filled.
President Trump is expected to nominate a replacement in the coming months. If confirmed, the new appointment could shift the commission’s policy direction, particularly on issues such as natural gas infrastructure and environmental review processes. Once a nominee is put forth, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will determine whether to advance the nomination to the full Senate for a confirmation vote.
APGA will monitor and provide updates on the nomination and confirmation process.
For questions on this article, please contact Sydney Novoa of APGA by phone at 202-464-0834 or email at snovoa@apga.org.