Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) issued the following statement on the nomination of David Bernhardt to be U.S. Interior Secretary.
“With over 85 percent of Nevada’s lands owned by the federal government, the Department of Interior is a key partner with local communities in fostering economic development, creating opportunities for jobs in renewable energy, and in preserving our states’ vital public lands like Red Rock and the Ruby Mountains. Acting Secretary Bernhardt’s history as a lobbyist with ties to fossil fuel companies raises serious questions about his commitment to honoring the mission of the Department of the Interior to conserve and manage the natural resources and cultural heritage of America, as well as protect and preserve Nevada’s public lands. I have serious reservations about his nomination, and I plan to carefully review Mr. Bernhardt’s record.”