Source: AP News
President Joe Biden’s nominee to the position of Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the Interior Department Bryan Newland appeared before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs yesterday. Newland received widespread support from the committee, and tribes have endorsed him as someone who is well-versed in the issues they face, and as a tribal advocate. Newland said the work will require collaboration across federal agencies, driven by tribes.
Source: Senate Committee on Indian Affairs press release:
Mr. Newland, a graduate of the Indian Law program at Michigan State University College of Law, is a citizen of the Bay Mills Indian Community and most recently served his Tribe as its duly-elected President. He also served in the federal government as a presidentially appointed Counselor and Policy Advisor to the AS-IA under the Obama administration.
“As the [Interior] Department’s highest-ranking Senate-confirmed official in Indian Affairs, the Assistant Secretary is charged with maintaining the government-to-government relationship with sovereign Tribal Nations, respecting Tribal sovereignty, and promoting Tribal self-determination,” said Chairman Schatz. “This hearing is an important first step in carrying out the Senate’s constitutional duty to provide advice and consent [on] one of the most consequential nominations for Native communities across our nation.”
Schatz went on to explain why he supports Mr. Newland’s confirmation.
“I believe Mr. Newland has the necessary experience to hit the ground running, implement the President’s agenda, and execute Indian Country’s priorities,” said Chairman Schatz. “His sincerity and willingness to learn are key attributes to this position, and Mr. Newland has made clear that he is committed to serving as chief federal advocate for not just Tribal nations, but for the Native Hawaiian community as well.”