Billy Kirkland nominated as assistant secretary of Indian affairs

William “Billy” Kirkland, a Navajo citizen, was nominated Feb. 3 to be assistant secretary of the Interior for Indian affairs, according to Indian Country Today. The role supports the Interior secretary in fulfilling treaty and trust responsibilities to tribal nations. Kirkland previously served as special assistant to the president and deputy director of intergovernmental affairs during Trump’s first term. He also served as director of external affairs in the Office of the Vice President. The National Congress of American Indians welcomed the nomination, expressing anticipation to work with Kirkland on tribal sovereignty issues. The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will hold a hearing on Kirkland’s nomination on July 16.