The Senate has confirmed Doug Burgum, the former governor of North Dakota, as the Secretary of the Interior in a decisive 79-18 vote. This means he will now serve in President Donald Trump’s cabinet.
Burgum joins an administration focused on increasing oil and gas production while limiting wind energy generation on federal lands. However, during his time as governor, Burgum supported various energy sources and mentioned at his confirmation hearing that he believes in an “all of the above” energy strategy. He expressed the need for more overall energy production, particularly emphasizing the importance of baseload generation.
President Trump announced in a November post that Burgum will also take the lead as the chairman of a new National Energy Council, granting him a position on the National Security Council as well. Trump stated that this council will aim for greater U.S. energy independence by reducing regulatory barriers and enhancing private investments across different economic sectors, emphasizing innovation while minimizing outdated regulations.
As part of his responsibilities, Burgum will conduct a thorough review of offshore wind energy during a six-month halt on federal permits and leases. The review’s goal is to evaluate the ecological, economic, and environmental merits of existing wind energy leases and to determine if any should be terminated or amended. This process will culminate in a report submitted to Trump.
Jim Matheson, the CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, praised Burgum’s confirmation, noting his long-standing commitment to maintaining the reliability of the electric grid and managing public lands and resources effectively. Jason Grumet, the CEO of the American Clean Power Association, also congratulated Burgum, expressing eagerness to work with the administration to realize American energy dominance through an integrated energy strategy.
Conversely, Evergreen Action criticized the appointment, with executive director Lena Moffitt stating that the Senate had given Trump another ally for the oil industry. She highlighted concerns about the administration’s agenda potentially benefiting large oil companies at the expense of American voters, who they believe desire lower costs and economic stability.
All 53 Republican senators voted in favor of Burgum, along with 25 Democrats.