FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 13, 2025

MCV urges Montana’s U.S. Senate delegation to prioritize public lands and conservation amid  Gov. Burgum Secretary of the Interior nomination

(Bozeman, MT) — Montana Conservation Voters (MCV) is calling on U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy to prioritize the protection of public lands and conservation in the 119th Congress, especially as they consider the nomination of North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum for Secretary of Interior.

In a letter sent today to Montana’s Senate delegation, MCV emphasized the vital importance of conservation for Montanans and urged Senators Daines and Sheehy to thoroughly review Governor Burgum’s qualifications and track record with a focus on public lands stewardship.

“We urge you to thoroughly assess his qualifications and ensure his record aligns with the core values and priorities of the Department of the Interior,” wrote Whitney Tawney, Executive Director of Montana Conservation Voters. “The Secretary plays a critical role in managing America’s public lands, national parks, wildlife refuges, and natural resources. It is essential that the Secretary prioritize conservation, sustainable stewardship, and the long-term health of these resources for the American public.”

MCV’s letter was delivered at a critical time, as the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is scheduled to hold Governor Burgum’s confirmation hearing tomorrow, January 14.

While Governor Burgum has expressed support for land stewardship and outdoor recreation in his home state, his tenure as Governor of North Dakota has raised concerns due to his strong advocacy for expanding fossil fuel production and reducing regulatory oversight in the oil and gas sector.

As this nomination process moves forward, MCV remains hopeful that Governor Burgum will be the kind of leader who can balance the needs of all stakeholders and help secure a bright future for Montanans and our public lands.

MCV’s full letter to Daines and Sheehy can be found online HERE.