President-elect Donald Trump has selected North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum (R) to head the Department of the Interior, the federal agency responsible for managing the nation’s public lands and waters. In addition, Trump announced on Friday that Burgum will also lead a newly formed National Energy Council, which will oversee all aspects of energy production and distribution, including permitting, regulation, and transportation.
With this appointment, Burgum brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Here are seven things to know about the incoming Interior Secretary:
1. A Successful Businessman
Before entering the world of politics, Burgum had a successful career in the technology industry. He co-founded Great Plains Software, which was later sold to Microsoft for $1.1 billion. He also served as a senior vice president at Microsoft for nine years.
2. A Fresh Perspective
Burgum comes from outside the traditional political sphere, bringing a fresh perspective and innovative thinking to the role of Interior Secretary. His business background and track record of success make him a strong candidate to lead the agency responsible for managing over 500 million acres of public land and 1.7 billion acres of offshore waters.
3. A Strong Proponent of States’ Rights
During his time as Governor of North Dakota, Burgum has been a vocal supporter of states’ rights and has advocated for more control and decision-making authority at the state level. This philosophy aligns with Trump’s vision of decentralizing power and returning authority to individual states, making Burgum a natural fit for the role.
4. An Environmentalist at Heart
Despite his business background, Burgum is an environmentalist at heart. He has been a strong advocate for responsible stewardship of natural resources and has implemented policies to promote conservation and renewable energy development in North Dakota. This combination of business acumen and environmental awareness makes him a well-rounded and balanced choice for the position.
5. A Champion of Economic Growth
As a former business executive, Burgum is well-versed in the importance of economic growth and job creation. He has a proven track record of bringing jobs and economic opportunities to North Dakota through innovative policies and initiatives. As head of the Interior Department, he will play a crucial role in promoting and regulating America’s energy sector, which is vital for economic growth and stability.
6. A Hands-on Leader
Known for his hands-on approach to leadership, Burgum is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get involved in the day-to-day operations of the agencies he oversees. This practical and proactive approach will be a valuable asset as he takes on the daunting task of managing the vast resources of the Department of the Interior.
7. A Collaborative Leader
Burgum is known for his ability to bring people together and build consensus. As the head of the National Energy Council, he will work closely with various stakeholders, including industry leaders, environmental organizations, and state and local officials, to develop policies that balance economic growth with environmental concerns. His collaborative approach will be essential in successfully navigating the complexities of energy policy.
With his diverse background, proven leadership skills, and dedication to promoting economic growth and responsible environmental policies, Governor Doug Burgum is a strong choice to lead the Department of the Interior and the newly formed National Energy Council. As we look towards the future, we can be confident in his ability to effectively manage our nation’s natural resources and energy sector, ensuring a balanced approach that benefits both our economy and our environment.
