North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has been confirmed as President-elect Donald Trump's choice to lead the United States Department of Interior (DOI) under his 47th presidential administration.

The DOI manages federal natural and cultural resources, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), which oversees trust assets for American Indians and Alaska Natives. The department plays a crucial role in reviewing tribal lands and determining their eligibility for federal trust status, which affects tribal gaming rights.

Burgum's nomination has received broad support, particularly from tribal leaders. Standing Rock Chairwoman Janet Alkire and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Chairman J. Garrett Renville have expressed confidence in Burgum's ability to maintain positive relationships with tribal nations, citing his strong track record of collaboration in North Dakota.

While tribes are transitioning from current Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve in a presidential Cabinet, many remain optimistic about Burgum's leadership. Prediction markets give him a 96% chance of Senate confirmation.

If confirmed, Burgum will oversee:

• 70,000 employees
• 500 million acres of public lands
• 700 million acres of subsurface minerals
• 1.7 billion acres of Outer Continental Shelf
• $18 billion budget for fiscal year 2025

Burgum has pledged to improve federal-tribal relations and enhance responsible resource management while maintaining environmental stewardship for the American people.

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