NEW TOWN — The confirmation of former North Dakota governor Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior will give tribal nations a strong partner in realizing prosperity, said Mark Fox, chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation on the Fort Berthold Reservation.

Last week, the United States Senate confirmed Burgum, who also has been selected by President Donald Trump to lead the newly formed National Energy Council.

Fox worked with the former governor on a number of issues over several years.

“During his time as governor, Secretary Burgum showed himself to be an ally of tribal nations in North Dakota. I believe he will be an extremely effective Secretary of the Interior and leader of the National Energy Council,” Fox said in a news release.

“In our partnerships, he showed respect for tribal sovereignty and the principles of federal Indian law. He knows that tribal partners bring unique assets and face serious challenges, and he has worked with MHA Nation to support our interests and goals. We’ve appreciated his partnership on issues ranging from COVID, formulating tax agreement, wildfire management as well as his leadership regarding the N.D. Indian Affairs Commission,” he said.

“Our goals for energy development include tribal deference regarding regulatory policies and rules, but more importantly, they include opportunities to obtain federal support in the form of loans and grants to complete energy projects and facilitate the tribe’s important role in energy security for our nation,” he added. “I know from direct experience that Secretary Burgum is a no-nonsense leader. He brings strong business experience and successful solutions to obstacles that impede good development. I believe that mindset will help tribal nations realize strategic development and economic prosperity.”