Western Energy Alliance Responds to Haaland’s Confirmation Hearing for Interior Secretary

DENVER -- Western Energy Alliance released reaction to the conclusion of hearings held by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for Rep. Debra Haaland’s nomination as Interior Secretary. The following quote is attributable to Alliance President Kathleen Sgamma:
 
“I’m encouraged that Rep. Haaland is rising to the occasion. She recognized the importance of oil and natural gas to the Interior Department and country throughout her confirmation hearing. The fact she acknowledged that there has to be some moderation to her personal opinions and that radical environmentalism doesn’t translate well into governance is a good first step.

​“If confirmed, she’ll oversee about a quarter of American’s energy production. Failing to develop those resources would seriously put all Americans at risk, especially members of the energy-producing tribes. We’re excited the country is on the verge of its first Native American Interior Secretary, as she represents a vital constituency for the department. As an industry regulated by the department, we hope for constructive engagement along with other stakeholders. We are likely to be on opposite sides of many issues, such as the ban on leasing, but will find common ground as well. Despite her characterization in the hearings, the executive order is not an insignificant ‘pause’ but rather a multi-year ban through paralysis by analysis. We continue to wish her well through the process.”

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