Energy Secretary-designate, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, is sworn-in on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 19, 2017, prior to testifying at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Rick Perry has been confirmed as the new Energy Secretary

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March 02, 2017 02:28 PM EST

Rick Perry, the former governor of Texas, was confirmed by the Senate as the new Energy Secretary on Thursday.

Perry infamously said during the 2012 presidential campaign that he would abolish the Department of Energy, but forgot the agency during a Republican primary debate.

In January, The New York Times reported Perry may not have known what the department did before accepting President Trump's offer for the job.

Rick Perry's 'Oops' Moment at 2011 Presidential Debate

WATCH | Here's Perry's now-infamous Department of Energy gaffe.

Lighter moment at former Texas Governor Rick Perry's confirmation hearing when asked if he enjoyed meeting Minnesota Sen. Al Franken. pic.twitter.com/gikzrpKau8
— FOX 7 Austin (@fox7austin) January 19, 2017

Perry also spawned memes after an awkward conversation with Sen. Al Franken (D-MN).

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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