Chicago – November 15, 2024
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum as his Secretary of the Interior nominee. Trump announced during a speech at a dinner hosted by the America First Policy Institute at Mar-a-Lago.
Initially hinting at a significant appointment for Burgum, Trump revealed the decision ahead of a formal announcement planned for Friday.
Doug Burgum, 68, is a wealthy former software executive who also contended for the Republican presidential nomination last year.
Despite an early exit from the race due to low support, Trump valued Burgum’s emphasis on energy issues and his effective communication skills. Post-campaign, Burgum became a prominent figure at Trump rallies, supporting Trump’s policies and criticizing outgoing President Joe Biden.
The Department of the Interior, which Burgum is set to lead, manages the nation’s federal lands, including national parks and monuments. It also deals with programs related to Native American tribes. North Dakota, where Burgum serves as governor, is home to five federally recognized tribes.
