Trump Appoints Doug Burgum as Interior and Energy Secretary: A Boost for North Dakota Tribes
Mark Fox, the chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, praised Governor Doug Burgum’s appointment as secretary of the Interior and chair of the National Energy Council, calling it beneficial for North Dakota tribes. President-elect Donald Trump nominated Burgum, allowing him to oversee the Department of the Interior and federal energy regulations.
Tribal leaders from North and South Dakota expressed their support for Burgum. They believe he has improved relationships with local tribes since taking office in 2016. Burgum has promoted tax-sharing agreements with Native nations and has established a permanent display of all five tribal flags outside his office. He also pushed for partnerships to enhance law enforcement and emergency responses in reservations.
David Flute, former chair of the Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux Tribe, noted that Burgum understands key issues like public safety, education, and economic development in Indian country. Burgum will replace Deb Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet secretary. Tribal officials view Burgum as a vital ally in Washington.
How does Mark Fox view the impact of Burgum’s leadership on economic development for Native nations in North Dakota?
Interview with Mark Fox: Insights on Governor Doug Burgum’s Role for North Dakota Tribes
Interviewer: Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Mark Fox, chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation. Mr. Fox, thank you for joining us.
Mark Fox: Thank you for having me.
Interviewer: You recently praised Governor Doug Burgum’s appointment as Secretary of the Interior and chair of the National Energy Council. Can you elaborate on why you believe this is beneficial for North Dakota tribes?
Mark Fox: Absolutely. Governor Burgum’s appointment is a significant opportunity for the tribes in North Dakota. His track record, since taking office in 2016, reflects a genuine commitment to fostering strong relationships with indigenous communities. His understanding of our unique challenges and opportunities can lead to better collaboration at both the local and federal levels.
Interviewer: Tribal leaders in North and South Dakota have expressed strong support for Burgum. In your view, what specific actions has he taken to improve relations with tribal nations?
Mark Fox: Governor Burgum has actively promoted tax-sharing agreements, which are essential for economic development within our communities. Importantly, the display of all five tribal flags outside his office symbolizes respect and recognition for Native nations. Additionally, his initiatives to strengthen law enforcement and emergency responses on reservations show his commitment to our public safety needs.
Interviewer: In the context of his new role, what do you believe should be Burgum’s priority areas?
Mark Fox: One of my hopes is that he fosters a regulatory environment that is beneficial for tribes rich in natural resources, like the MHA Nation. Promoting sustainable development while protecting our cultural heritage is crucial. There’s a delicate balance that needs to be struck, and I’m optimistic that Burgum’s leadership will help achieve that.
Interviewer: Some have expressed concerns regarding the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on tribal nations. How do you see this influencing Burgum’s approach?
Mark Fox: That’s a valid concern. The Trump administration had policies that were not always aligned with indigenous interests. However, I believe that Governor Burgum is aware of these dynamics and will seek to collaborate with tribes to ensure that our priorities—like sustainable development and cultural preservation—are addressed.
Interviewer: In the past, there were significant tensions, like those during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. How has Burgum worked to address those issues?
Mark Fox: Governor Burgum recognized the complicated nature of state-tribe relations from the outset. His outreach to tribal leaders was a proactive step toward dialogue and collaboration. This willingness to communicate plays a critical role in building trust and mitigating future conflicts.
Interviewer: U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer has spoken highly of Burgum’s initiatives in enhancing Indian relations. Do you think he will be able to fulfill the expectations set upon him in this new role?
Mark Fox: Yes, I believe he is well-equipped to address the complexities of the Interior Department. His history of engagement with tribal leaders gives him unique insights into our challenges. If he continues to prioritize those relationships, I am optimistic about positive changes for our communities.
Interviewer: what message do you hope to send to other tribal leaders about working with Burgum in this new capacity?
Mark Fox: I encourage tribal leaders to maintain open lines of communication with Governor Burgum. He genuinely values our input, and through partnership, we can work together to face the challenges ahead and create sustainable opportunities for all tribes in North Dakota.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Fox, for sharing your thoughts on this important topic.
Mark Fox: Thank you for having me.
State Rep. Lisa Finley-DeVille acknowledged Burgum’s efforts to build relationships with tribes but expressed concern over the Trump administration’s policies. She hopes Burgum will collaborate with tribes on sustainable development and cultural preservation. Fox hopes Burgum will foster a better regulatory climate for tribes rich in resources, such as the MHA Nation, home to many active oil wells.
Burgum recognized the tense state-tribe relations during his early tenure, which included protests over the Dakota Access Pipeline. He reached out to tribal leaders to promote dialogue and collaboration. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer noted Burgum’s efforts to enhance Indian relations in North Dakota, criticizing the current Bureau of Indian Affairs as unresponsive. Cramer believes Burgum is well-suited to lead the Interior Department.