MHA Nation Chairman releases Statement on Future Working with Secretary of Interior Burgum

Former North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has stepped into a significant role as Secretary of the Interior and head of the National Energy Council, following confirmation by President Trump. In response, MHA Nation Chairman Mark Fox released the following statement:

In my role as chairman, my top priority is to pursue opportunities for the prosperity of the MHA Nation and the Fort Berthold community. 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.

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 ND Indian Affairs Commission.

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. 

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.