- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
WASHINGTON — Rep. Deb Haaland (D-NM) made her last speech in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, a day after winning confirmation to become the 54th secretary of the Interior. She was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Monday evening by a 51-40 margin.
Haaland, a tribal citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna, will become the first American Indian to serve as secretary in a presidential cabinet. She began her second term in Congress in January. She and Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS) became the first two American Indian women to ever serve in Congress after being elected in November 2018.
During her remarks on Tuesday, Haaland recalled struggling to make ends meet as she raised her daughter as a single mother. She became teary-eyed as she bid her farewell to her House colleagues.
Haaland is expected to be sworn as Interior Secretary on Thursday by Vice President Kamala Harris.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsNative News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Trump Administration Rescinds Funding Freeze Memo, Easing Tribal Concerns
Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration's Funding Freeze, Tribal Programs Protected for Now
Cheyenne River Youth Project Prepares to Host 25th Annual Passion for Fashion Event on March 8
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
