Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation Endorse Governor Doug Burgum for Secretary of the Department of the Interior

By the Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation

As Native people who have long fought for sovereignty, cultural preservation, and respect for treaty rights, we enthusiastically support Governor Doug Burgum’s nomination to serve as Secretary of the Interior. Governor Burgum’s tenure in North Dakota has demonstrated his sincere commitment to partnering with Native nations on public safety, economic development, education, domestic energy, and the broader goal of restoring government-to-government relationships that honor tribal sovereignty.

A History of Collaboration and Respect

When Governor Burgum first took office in 2016, North Dakota’s relationship with its tribes was, at best, fragile. Under his leadership, that dynamic shifted toward mutual respect and collaboration. Not only did Burgum advocate for tax-sharing agreements with Native nations, but he also took tangible steps to recognize tribal identities and traditions. One such step was adding a permanent display of the five tribal flags outside the Governor’s office—an important symbolic gesture that underscored his commitment to visibility and inclusion.

“We have full confidence that Gov. Burgum’s heart and intentions are in a place that will ensure tribal nations are heard and respected in the decisions that shape our shared future.”
— Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Chairman J. Garrett Renville

Beyond symbolism, Burgum initiated practical measures to improve the well-being of Native communities. For example, he pushed for law enforcement partnerships to enhance emergency response times on reservations. He also spearheaded the Strengthening Government to Government Conference—an annual gathering where tribal and state leaders address shared challenges and solutions.

Advocating for Tribal Sovereignty

Governor Burgum’s support of tax-sharing agreements and outreach to tribal communities exemplify how state-tribal partnerships can work without undermining our sovereignty. For centuries, federal and state authorities have often overlooked tribal nations’ voices, resulting in broken treaties and unfulfilled promises. Burgum’s willingness to invite tribal leaders to the table and listen to our concerns is a crucial step toward righting historical wrongs.

As David Flute, former chair of the Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux Tribe and now Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tribal Relations, said in a statement to the North Dakota Monitor, “Governor Burgum understands Indian Country and the challenges we face, such as the need for public safety, better tribal education, and economic development in Indian Country.” Many tribal leaders echo this sentiment, as they have witnessed firsthand how Governor Burgum respects and values our input, establishing a foundation of mutual trust.

Ensuring Accountability and Good Governance

Leadership within the Department of the Interior must understand tribal sovereignty, and Governor Burgum’s track record in North Dakota proves he is well-equipped for the role. At the annual Strengthening Government to Government conference, he summed up his philosophy: “That’s where we were starting from: with a commitment to each other to listen to each other.” This approach is needed in the federal arena, where the Bureau of Indian Affairs must often reconcile overlapping interests and responsibilities.

North Dakota’s U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer praised Burgum’s collaborative style, saying he believes the Governor’s “experience working with North Dakota tribal leaders makes him a good fit for leading Interior,” especially given that the current BIA is seen by many as “unresponsive and bureaucratic.” That sentiment resonates with tribal nations who seek a federal partner committed to empowerment rather than paternalism.

Building Friendships and Partnerships

Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Chairman J. Garrett Renville expressed his confidence by stating, “Gov. Burgum’s heart and intentions are in a place that will ensure tribal nations are heard and respected in the decisions that shape our shared future.” The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire highlighted the strong relationship between Governor Burgum and North Dakota tribes: “He understands the relationship with tribes, meets with us regularly, and we can call on him anytime. He has a good friendship and partnership with all the tribes in North Dakota.”

In an era when federal-state-tribal relations have too often been adversarial or marred by mistrust, Burgum’s cooperative ethic stands out. He has not only engaged with tribal leaders in formal settings. Still, he has also shown up in times of urgency—ensuring that tribal communities’ voices carry weight on pressing issues, from economic development to domestic energy exploration, while respecting environmental and cultural values.

Righting Historical Wrongs

Though much work remains, and no single leader can erase centuries of oppression or broken treaties, Governor Burgum has shown a desire to begin the healing process. Creating permanent tribal flag displays, the improved emergency response protocols, and consistent dialogue with tribal nations all mark essential first steps in rectifying past missteps. We believe that, as Secretary of the Department of the Interior, he will continue to promote these values nationally, helping foster an environment in which treaties are honored, tribal voices are respected, and government-to-government relationships thrive.

“Gov. Doug Burgum is such a good guy and I’m so grateful for the choice President Trump has made. He really understands the relationship with tribes, meets with us regularly, and we can call on him anytime.”
— Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire

The Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation (NASP) stand united in endorsing Governor Doug Burgum’s nomination for Secretary of the Department of the Interior. His proven record of outreach, respect, and collaboration with tribes in North Dakota demonstrates he is the ideal choice to advance our shared goals of sovereignty, self-determination, and prosperity for all Native nations.

By placing someone in this vital position who has forged genuine partnerships and respects tribal sovereignty, we believe the federal government will be taking a critical step forward. Governor Burgum has shown us he listens, acts, and genuinely cares—qualities essential for a Secretary of the Interior who will shape policies impacting Native communities for generations to come.