Doug Burgum’s Confirmation Hearing as Interior Secretary Begins

Burgum’s Close Ties to Oil Industry Raise Concerns Ahead of Senate Confirmation Hearing

In May, former North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum hosted an exclusive dinner featuring Walleye cakes, peach cobbler, and fine wine at his official residence, catering to a group of oil and gas executives. Notably, the dinner’s guest of honor was Harold Hamm, the billionaire CEO of Continental Resources, one of the largest independent oil companies in the United States. This gathering not only highlights Burgum’s ongoing connection to the oil industry but also sets the stage for scrutiny as he prepares for his Senate confirmation hearing for the position of Secretary of the Interior under President Donald Trump.

Burgum’s relationship with Hamm spans political and personal realms. He frequently appeared at events honoring Hamm, gave a commendatory endorsement for Hamm’s memoir, and even drew comparisons between Hamm and historical figures such as former President Theodore Roosevelt during official addresses. However, as Burgum seeks to lead the Interior Department—a position that oversees key aspects of U.S. energy policy—his ties to figures like Hamm are expected to raise red flags among senators, particularly Democrats and environmental advocates who are wary of the influence of the oil and gas sector on national energy strategies.

Critics have pointed to the potential conflicts of interest arising from Burgum’s close friendship and financial ties to Hamm, especially when he is slated to oversee the federal oil and gas leasing program. Tony Carrk, executive director of the watchdog group Accountable.US, expressed concern, stating, “Governor Burgum’s close friendship and financial relationship with billionaire oil and gas executive Harold Hamm presents a clear conflict of interest.” This assertion aligns with the broader concerns surrounding Trump’s administration, which has been vocal about its pro-drilling and pro-fossil fuel agenda, emphasizing the mantra “drill, baby, drill.”

Throughout the previous election campaign, Burgum acted as a bridge between Trump and the fossil fuel industry, effectively aligning himself with executives who contributed significant amounts toward Trump’s bid for re-election—totaling over $75 million. Burgum’s commitment to achieving “energy dominance” as Secretary of the Interior is anticipated to bolster the fossil fuel industry’s interests, sparking further discussion on the implications of these alliances.

The Interior Department, with an annual budget nearing $18 billion, is tasked with managing vast public lands, preserving wildlife, maintaining national parks, and overseeing numerous tribal programs. Given the political landscape, where North Dakota’s economy is heavily reliant on energy production, Burgum’s connections to the oil and gas sector are not merely political but also personal. Documents reveal that Burgum’s family leases farmland to major companies like Continental Resources and Hess Corporation, generating personal royalties that range between $15,000 and $50,000 annually. Understanding the potential for conflicts, Burgum has indicated he would divest from these leases if confirmed.

The situation is further complicated by Burgum’s voting history as a member of the state Industrial Commission, where he has made decisions that benefit both Continental and Hess on roughly 20 occasions. Despite facing scrutiny, Burgum’s office has maintained that these lease agreements were established before his tenure as governor, arguing that many families in North Dakota share similar arrangements.

Academic and political experts emphasize that close ties between state officials and the oil industry are not uncommon in North Dakota. Mark S. Jendrysik, a political science professor at the University of North Dakota, stated, “It’s such a small state, it’s hard not to have what people perceive as conflicts of interest.” He further noted that Burgum is viewed positively within the state as a moderate politician who aligns with traditional Republican stances, particularly in advocating for less regulatory oversight in the energy sector.

Burgum briefly entered the presidential race in 2023 but withdrew and endorsed Trump, during which time Continental Resources donated $250,000 to support his campaign. Despite concerns regarding his potential conflicts of interest, advisers have defended Burgum’s ability to fulfill his duties as Secretary of the Interior without bias. Rob Lockwood, an advisor to Burgum, argued that voters can expect the former governor to honor Trump’s commitment to energy dominance while prioritizing national security and economic stability.

As Burgum approaches his Senate confirmation hearing, the intricate web of his associations with the oil industry, highlighted by past events and financial interests, is likely to come under serious examination. The outcome of this scrutiny may have a significant impact on the future direction of U.S. energy policy, making it a crucial moment for both Burgum and the broader industry he represents.