Rick Perry, a former Texas governor, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in a 62-37 vote as the new secretary for the U.S. Department of Energy.

As a former presidential candidate, Perry called to eliminate the agency. He also said previously that he did not believe in climate change.

Perry has since softened his views, saying that the Energy Department performs “vital functions” and that “the climate is changing” during his confirmation hearing in January.