By a vote of 79-18, former Governor Burgum has been confirmed as the Secretary of the Interior. North Dakota’s lawmakers provided the following comments through news releases.
The strong support Governor Burgum received throughout the confirmation process speaks volumes about his unique qualifications to serve as Secretary of the Interior. His background in energy, tribal relations, national parks and other public lands makes him the right person at the right time to lead the Department of the Interior, which touches every aspect of our lives in North Dakota. Doug understands that safe, responsible development of our nation’s abundant natural resources is key to curbing inflation, growing the economy and paying down our national debt for future generations. He will be an incredible asset to the Trump administration and, as chair of the National Energy Council, will help usher in a new era of U.S. energy dominance that benefits all Americans with reliable, affordable power.
— Governor Armstrong
With the right kind of policies and a focus on innovation, our nation can be energy dominant, supporting a more secure nation, a stronger economy and more affordable living for the American people,” said Hoeven. “Doug Burgum clearly understands the potential of our abundant, taxpayer-owned energy resources and will treat them as the strategic asset they are, including our oil, gas and coal reserves. Coupled with his strong relationship with Native American tribes and his support for maintaining access to public lands for multiple use, he is the right person for the job. That’s the case I worked to make to my colleagues, and I appreciate their support in promptly confirming Doug as our nation’s 55th Secretary of the Interior. I look forward to continuing our work together as he enters this new role.
— Senator Hoeven
Doug Burgum is tailor-made for the Secretary of the Interior,” **said Cramer. **“North Dakota embodies Teddy Roosevelt’s multiple use doctrine for public lands, balancing energy development, ranching, conservation, and recreation on some of the most beautiful, productive landscapes in the nation. Doug’s leadership in North Dakota and coordination with our tribes are models for our nation. He has a lot of work to do righting the ship, but his consensus-driven leadership style is up to the task.
— Senator Cramer
Today is a proud moment for our state. Doug Burgum is not only a trusted friend, but he is also a proven leader with the vision, innovation, and dedication needed to restore American energy dominance.** **Doug doesn’t just talk about solutions—he delivers them. His track record in North Dakota shows he’s the right leader at the right time for this critical role.
— Representative Fedorchak
