New Mexico Representative Confirmed as Secretary of the Interior by Senate Vote
Deb Haaland has made history by becoming the first Indigenous cabinet secretary in the United States. The Senate confirmed her as Secretary of the Interior in a 51-40 vote, with support from both Democratic and some Republican senators, including Lindsey Graham and Lisa Murkowski.
Haaland, a member of Laguna Pueblo, represents New Mexico and has previously emphasized priorities such as addressing climate change, strengthening tribal consultation, and fostering a green economic recovery. She has also expressed her willingness to work across the aisle to achieve these goals.
As Secretary of the Interior, Haaland will oversee 70,000 employees responsible for managing one fifth of all U.S. land and 1.7 billion acres of coastline. Her duties will include managing national parks, wildlife refuges, and essential natural resources such as gas, oil, and water. She will also play a significant role in overseeing tribal affairs, ensuring better relations and support for the nation’s Indigenous communities.
