Deputy Interior Secretary Nominee David Bernhardt Passes Senate Committee
The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources advanced the nomination of David Bernhardt as Deputy Interior Secretary in a 14-9 vote, on Tuesday. This position is of high importance to the recreational boating and fishing industries – land and water management, including policies directly impacting access to federally managed destinations – fall under the direction of the Department of the Interior. Bernhardt, a Colorado native, has served in several Interior roles, among them Solicitor, the highest ranking legal officer.
If confirmed, Bernhardt would serve as second in command to Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. Following the nomination in late April, Secretary Zinke expressed his support saying, “I am excited to announce the President and I have selected Dave Bernhardt to help me lead the Interior Department. Bernhardt's extensive experience serving under former Interior Secretaries Norton and Kempthorne and his esteemed legal career is exactly what is needed to help streamline government and make the Interior and our public lands work for the American economy."
NMMA works closely with the Department of the Interior to help advance industry interests, having recently met with Secretary Zinke in April. We’ll continue to monitor for updates in the confirmation process. If you have any questions, please contact Nicole Vasilaros at [email protected].