Senator John Hoeven introduced Governor Doug Burgum, nominated by President Donald Trump for the position of Secretary of the Interior and head of the National Energy Council, at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing. This introduction is part of Hoeven’s efforts to advance Burgum’s nomination.
Hoeven emphasized his intention to collaborate with Burgum to unlock America’s energy potential and ensure access to public lands for multiple uses, including grazing and energy development. He highlighted Burgum’s experience in both public and private sectors, particularly his familiarity with federal land issues in North Dakota. Additionally, he noted Burgum’s understanding of the National Park Service and his knowledge about the needs of energy and agriculture producers regarding federal acreage access.
Burgum has received significant support from Indian tribes nationwide, with over 185 tribes endorsing him. In North Dakota, tribal leaders have unanimously supported his nomination. Hoeven submitted letters from these leaders into the committee record as evidence of their endorsement.
“Doug Burgum truly fits the job of Interior Secretary. Whether it’s energy development, grazing, outdoor recreation, water supply, the National Park Service or tribal relations, he covers all of the bases,” said Hoeven. “Further, he has demonstrated a commitment to working with others, understanding their issues and collaborating toward solutions.”
Hoeven is also focused on reversing policies from the Biden-Harris administration that limit access to federal lands and minerals. These policies are seen as undermining U.S. energy security and increasing consumer costs. Among his priorities is opposing restrictive rules imposed by President Biden through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which would be under Burgum’s authority if confirmed as Interior Secretary.
These include opposition to BLM’s Public Lands Rule that affects management of taxpayer-owned lands by establishing “conservation leases,” potentially limiting access to federal lands. Hoeven also aims to advance his BLM Mineral Spacing Act to streamline permitting regulations.
