Harold Hamm, a pioneering fracking billionaire and founder of Continental Resources, has been a significant figure in US energy dominance and geopolitics. The son of Oklahoma sharecroppers, Hamm helped reverse declining US oil production with fracking techniques during the 2008 shale boom.

Donald Trump has described Hamm as a “long time” friend and reportedly called him his “original oil guy” behind closed doors. Hamm was instrumental in lifting the 40-year-old US crude oil export ban in 2015, a move that benefited his company. In 2024, Hamm helped organize a private fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago where Trump reportedly asked oil executives for $1 billion to support his White House bid.

Hamm’s influence extends internationally. In February 2013, he and his group visited the Western Wall in Israel, toured a military base, and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as documented by local reporters and photographs previously hosted on the non-profit CSA’s website. CSA, which Hamm co-chairs, focuses on educating about US energy security’s strategic importance. Its executive director, Jennifer Sutton, stated that CSA does not lobby for or against military actions but aims to promote economic stability, national security, and peaceful geopolitical outcomes.

In fall 2025, at a Washington DC think tank, Burgum recounted that before Trump launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in summer 2025, Trump asked what impact the strikes would have on US energy. Burgum said advisers had no substantive answer, replying “Nothing.” Hamm publicly declared his company would increase oil production due to the war, with US crude prices rising over 60% to around $100 per barrel. Hamm expressed indifference to Americans facing higher gas prices, stating in May 2026, “I really don’t feel bad. These folks are driving down the road with the $80,000 F-150 and we’re at about $4 gas.”

Hamm has faced scrutiny from climate advocates and some Democratic lawmakers over his role in encouraging Trump to prioritize fossil fuels and weaken climate regulations.

Sources