Minnesota tribal members celebrate Deb Haaland confirmation, while Rep. Stauber opposition faces criticism

ST. PAUL - Minnesota tribal leaders and Democratic lawmakers are celebrating the historic confirmation of Secretary Deb Haaland to head up the U.S. Department of the Interior, making her the first Native American to serve in the presidential cabinet in history.

The U.S. Senate voted 51-40 on Monday, March 15, to confirm Haaland to the role, which oversees American public lands, wildlife conservation, domestic energy and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Haaland is an enrolled member of the Laguna Pueblo and chaired the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands while representing New Mexico in Congress.

U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, Minnesota's junior Democratic senator, spoke for more than 10 minutes in support of Haaland's nomination during Monday's floor debate, saying "her life experiences make her perfect for this job."

https://www.brainerddispatch.com/news/government-and-politics/6938248-Minnesota-tribal-members-celebrate-Deb-Haaland-confirmation-while-Rep.-Stauber-opposition-faces-criticism