WASHINGTON — The Senate has confirmed Doug Burgum as the new Interior Secretary, with a decisive vote of 79-18. More than half of the Senate Democrats joined all 53 Republicans in backing Burgum, who is set to lead President Donald Trump's aggressive campaign to boost fossil fuel production across the United States.

The 68-year-old billionaire and former North Dakota governor, who has been a strong proponent of oil and gas development, emphasized the need for energy dominance during his confirmation hearing. “The American people have clearly placed their confidence in President Trump to achieve energy dominance,” Burgum said, outlining his vision for affordable energy that underpins national security and economic prosperity.

Taking over the Interior Department, which manages about 20% of U.S. lands, Burgum comes from a state that excels in oil production. His selection signifies a stark pivot from the previous administration's focus on environmental conservation and the push for renewable energy sources, raising concerns among Democrats and environmentalists about potential increases in greenhouse gas emissions.

Records indicate that during his time as governor, Burgum assisted the energy industry while profiting from family land leases to oil companies, prompting allegations of conflicts of interest. Despite these concerns, AP News suggests that Burgum's close ties to fossil fuel producers were pivotal in his appointment.

Burgum is also tasked with chairing a new National Energy Council, aimed at advancing the interests of the energy sector amidst disputes regarding federal regulations instituted during former President Biden's administration. He has actively criticized renewable energy sources, advocating for increased reliance on coal and nuclear energy, stating that these sources provide reliable electricity compared to wind and solar technologies.

His remarks have ignited a response in Congress. Hawaii's Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz expressed concern on the Senate floor, highlighting a shift away from an “all of the above” energy policy towards one that favors fossil fuels. "They said wind is dead on the offshore," he noted, illustrating the administration's apparent dismissal of renewable energy development.

As Interior Secretary, Burgum not only oversees oil and gas drilling initiatives but also manages the National Park Service and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, suggesting a broad impact of his policies on various aspects of land and resource management. With these expansive powers, he faces the challenge of balancing energy production with environmental stewardship amidst a backdrop of growing climate change concerns.

Amid this new role, Burgum has pledged to prioritize energy innovation while revisiting carbon-capture strategies. Critics, however, argue these technologies remain untested and may allow continued fossil fuel dependency without addressing urgent climate issues. During the confirmation process, he assured senators of his commitment to land conservation and environmental protection, affirming that “Not every acre of federal land is a national park or a wilderness area.”

This appointment aligns with Trump's overarching goal of dismantling what he calls excessive regulations from the previous administration, opening the door for increased drilling and resource extraction across federal lands.

For more details, visit Los Angeles Times.