Date Posted: November 22, 2024, 12:57h.
Last updated on: November 22, 2024, 12:57h.
President-elect Donald Trump announced that North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (R) will lead the United States Department of Interior (DOI) in his upcoming administration.
The DOI manages the federal government’s natural and cultural resources, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).
The BIA is responsible for protecting trust assets of American Indians and Alaska Natives, reviewing tribal lands for federal trust placement, allowing for Class I and II gaming on tribal lands.
After DOI approval, tribes can host Class I and II games and bingo-based electronic gaming machines. They need Class III gaming compacts for slot machines and live dealer games.
Burgum Leads Interior Department
Burgum’s nomination for DOI leadership is less controversial compared to other appointees. Environmentalists and political analysts view him as a suitable choice, though tribes will miss current Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.
Haaland, the first Native American in a presidential Cabinet, supports tribal economies, including three Laguna Pueblo casinos.
Tribes look forward to Burgum’s leadership in maintaining DOI’s support for federally recognized tribes.
Tribal nations expect Gov. Burgum to prioritize their needs and respect their voices in shaping our future,” said Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Chairman J. Garrett Renville.
“North Dakota tribes admire and appreciate Gov. Burgum’s collaboration and support,” added Standing Rock Chairwoman Janet Alkire.
Senate Approval Necessary
The U.S. Senate must confirm Burgum’s DOI appointment. His chances are high, with a 96% probability on Kalshi, a prediction market platform.
Burgum looks forward to enhancing DOI’s relationship with tribal nations, landowners, and environmental stewards for responsible natural resource utilization.
If confirmed, Burgum will oversee the DOI’s operations with a $18 billion budget and 70K employees managing significant acreage of public lands and resources.