Trump’s Nominee for Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Moves Closer to Confirmation
Amidst growing scrutiny and discussions, William “Billy” Kirkland III, a Navajo, is nearing a significant role within the Trump administration as the assistant secretary for Indian Affairs. This position, second only to the Interior Secretary, holds considerable influence over tribal affairs.
Kirkland, previously a special assistant to President Donald Trump and deputy director of intergovernmental affairs, highlighted his contributions during his Senate confirmation hearing. He attributed his involvement in creating Operation Lady Justice, a federal initiative focused on missing and murdered Indigenous peoples, and his efforts in bringing Navajo Code Talkers to the Oval Office.
During the hearing, Kirkland expressed, “I think that President Trump and Secretary Burgum love and appreciate and respect Indian Country. I think they care,” as he addressed the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.
New Mexico Senator Ben Ray Luján challenged this perspective, questioning the administration’s decision to cut funding from national programs benefiting Native American communities, and whether it aligns with America’s trust responsibilities.
In response, Kirkland stated, “Sir, I look forward, once confirmed, to working with you, your staff, this committee, and most importantly, tribal leaders, to prioritize the money that Congress appropriates for the Office of Indian Affairs, to make sure it’s best and most wisely invested.”
Upon confirmation, Kirkland would be tasked with maintaining tribal trust and treaty obligations. This role was previously held by Bryan Newland from Michigan’s Bay Mills Indian Community. Myron Lizer, former Vice President of the Navajo Nation, was also a contender for the position.
Arizona’s Democratic Senators, Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly, are still evaluating Kirkland’s candidacy. Their offices conveyed to KJZZ that the decision hinges on a thorough review of Kirkland’s record and testimony from the recent hearing. Kelly’s staff indicated a focus on assessing Kirkland’s qualifications and commitment to Arizona’s tribal communities. Concurrently, Gallego’s office emphasized the importance of accountability in the administration’s nomination process.
Kirkland’s nomination is supported by several prominent tribal organizations, including the Coalition of Large Tribes, the National Congress of American Indians, and Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren.
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