State Indian Affairs Department Responds Selection Of Congresswoman Debra Haaland To Lead U.S. Interior Department

INDIAN AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT NEWS

The New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD) on Thursday issued the following statement in support of President-elect Joe Biden’s selection of Congresswoman Debra Haaland to lead the United State Department of the Interior:

“Today, we celebrate President-elect Biden’s selection of Congresswoman Haaland as the first Native American cabinet secretary for the United States Interior Department,” said Lynn Trujillo, Indian Affairs Secretary. “Congresswoman Haaland has been a shining example of public service in the United States Congress and will no doubt be a true champion for Indian Country as Interior Secretary. It is with a full heart that I congratulate Congresswoman Haaland on this tremendous accomplishment. Young native women and girls have a new role model today as we see a strong, indigenous woman take on this responsibility.”

“Congratulations to Congresswoman Debra Haaland for being appointed to serve as the first Native American Secretary for the U.S. Department of Interior. This is a historic moment for all Native Americans,” said Nadine Padilla, Indian Affairs Deputy Secretary. “Congresswoman Haaland exemplifies what it means to be a public servant, this new appointment is remarkable: her track record and depth of experience make her the ideal candidate. I look forward to continuing to work with Congresswoman Haaland as she moves into her new role.”