President-elect Donald Trump has chosen North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to serve as his next secretary of the Department of the Interior. Trump announced his pick at a gala event at his Mar-a-Lago resort, praising Burgum’s qualifications for the role. Burgum, a conservative second-term governor, had previously challenged Trump for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination but has now been selected to oversee natural resources, public lands, and Indian affairs at the Department of the Interior.
Despite his previous bid for the presidency, Burgum had not immediately endorsed Trump when he suspended his campaign last December. As a former Microsoft executive, Burgum had previously stated that he would not consider a running mate position for Trump but has now been chosen for a Cabinet-level position, which will require Senate confirmation.
The role of the Department of the Interior will be inherited from Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet secretary in history. Trump’s choice of Burgum for this key position is part of his strategy to appoint individuals who can advance his energy agenda without lengthy confirmation hearings. The president-elect has named over 20 picks for his administration, some of whom have been controversial. Burgum’s selection adds to the list of significant appointments made by Trump as he prepares to take office.
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