Trump Taps North Dakota Governor to Lead Interior

Doug Burgum confirmed as Biden administration's pick to lead the Department of the Interior

Burgum brings experience in energy and conservation to the role

President Joe Biden on Friday picked North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to lead the Department of the Interior, a move that could help the administration advance its climate agenda while also appeasing Republicans. Burgum, a Republican, is a former technology executive who has been governor of North Dakota since 2016.

Burgum is a strong supporter of the fossil fuel industry, but he has also taken steps to promote renewable energy and conserve natural resources. In 2019, he signed a bill that requires North Dakota to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050. He has also worked to protect the state's water resources, including the Missouri River and the Bakken oil formation.

Burgum's nomination is likely to be well-received by Republicans, who have been critical of the Biden administration's environmental policies. However, it is also likely to face opposition from environmental groups, who are concerned about Burgum's ties to the fossil fuel industry.

If confirmed by the Senate, Burgum would be the first Republican to lead the Interior Department since George W. Bush's presidency. He would also be the first governor to lead the department since Bruce Babbitt, who served under President Bill Clinton.

The Interior Department is responsible for managing the nation's public lands, minerals, and wildlife. It also oversees the National Park Service and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.