Tina Smith: “I rise today in strong support of the historic nomination of Deb Haaland to serve as Secretary of the Interior. When…”

“I rise today in strong support of the historic nomination of Deb Haaland to serve as Secretary of the Interior. When Representative Haaland appeared before the Senate for her confirmation hearing, she opened by saying: ``My story is unique.'' Haaland is a 35th-generation New Mexican, an enrolled member of the Laguna Pueblo, and will be the first-ever Native American to serve as a Cabinet Secretary. National Congress of the American Indians President Fawn Sharp noted that it is fitting that as we celebrate Women's History Month, Deb Haaland is poised to make it. Her nomination is a historic choice and a moment of deep meaning to Tribal nations and indigenous people across the country who have seen over and over again the Federal Government fail to keep its promises to Native people, promises made in law and treaty. It is clear to me that we need Representative Haaland's strong voice of stewardship for our public resources, cultural resources, and public lands, for action on the climate crisis, and for making sure that the Federal Government lives up to its treaty and trust responsibilities for Tribal nations and their citizens. Representative Haaland's background and her life experiences make her perfect for this job.…”