U.S. Rep. Debra Haaland (D-NM) today was confirmed as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Secretary Haaland is the first Native American to hold a position in the U.S. Cabinet. In response, the BlueGreen Alliance released the following statement from Executive Director Jason Walsh:

“Secretary Haaland embodies exactly the kind of leadership we need at the U.S. Department of the Interior. She recognizes the critical role that our public lands can play to combat climate change and build economic growth, while ensuring responsible energy development and the needs of a clean energy future. She also understands the importance of ensuring communities have access to the tools needed for a fair and equitable transition to the clean energy future.

“We are thrilled to congratulate Secretary Haaland on her confirmation.”