Iran Press/America: The Senate on Monday confirmed New Mexico Rep. Deb Haaland as interior secretary, making her the first Native American to lead a Cabinet department and the first to lead the federal agency that has wielded influence over the nation’s tribes for nearly two centuries.
The vote was 51 to 40, with most Republicans voting against her after several called her views on public land use and fossil fuels extreme.
It wasn't the first time Haaland has made history. In 2018, she was elected as one of the two first female Native Americans in Congress. Her nomination to lead the Interior Department was a victory for an alliance of progressives and Indigenous leaders who campaigned to elevate one of their own to a powerful federal seat that oversees natural resources, public lands and Indian affairs. Haaland will be part of Biden's plan to tackle the climate crisis and reduce carbon emissions.
On Monday 23 November, US President Joe Biden announced several top positions on his national security team, including secretary of state, Homeland Security Secretary, Director of National Intelligence, Ambassador to the United Nations, National Security Adviser and a special presidential envoy for the climate. 219
