Chris Van Hollen: “we urgently need a qualified and effective leader ready to protect our natural resources, conserve public lands, and…”

“we urgently need a qualified and effective leader ready to protect our natural resources, conserve public lands, and collaborate with our Tribal nations. President Biden's nominee to lead the Department of the Interior is just the person for the job, Congresswoman Debra Haaland. She will quickly restore confidence in the Department and reaffirm its mission to manage and conserve our public land and do its part to confront climate change. Congresswoman Haaland would be the first Native American Cabinet Secretary, and she is no stranger to breaking barriers. Haaland was one of the first two Native women elected to Congress in 2018. Prior to her congressional tenure, Haaland was the first Chairwoman elected to the Laguna Development Corporation Board of Directors and the first Native woman elected to lead a State party, as chairwoman of the New Mexico Democratic Party. She brought her progressive values of sustainability and environmental protection to each of her positions, and I believe she will do the same for the Department of the Interior. During her tenure as vice chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Haaland led legislative efforts, like the ANTIQUITIES Act and the 30x30 Resolution, to protect and conserve our national monuments, public lands, and oceans. Additionally, the Congresswoman has prioritized environmental justice and Tribal inclusion throughout her career.…”