BISMARCK, N.D. — Last year, when North Dakota’s oil association planned a banquet to recognize notable fracking executives, they sought the help of Governor Doug Burgum. The two-term Republican governor, who has recently been appointed by President Donald Trump to head the Interior Department, co-hosted the event at the governor’s mansion.
Similarly, when lobbyists from the energy sector needed support in challenging the greenhouse gas regulations imposed by the Biden administration, they again reached out to Burgum. An industry lobbyist sent an email to his office emphasizing that a combined effort between the energy sector and state government was essential to effectively fight these new rules.
Documents show that while it is expected for a governor of an oil-rich state to work closely with fossil fuel industries, Burgum’s administration has actively supported these interests, even as he profited from leasing family land to oil companies. This assistance was particularly valuable to Burgum as he worked to enhance his national reputation within the Republican Party.
After being confirmed for the top role at the Interior Department, Burgum will have significant authority over federal lands, including the ability to issue oil and gas leases, and he has received a directive from Trump to promote resource extraction despite the U.S. reaching record levels of fossil fuel production.
This close alignment with the oil and gas sector has raised alarms among Democrats and environmental advocates, who have expressed concerns about Burgum’s eagerness to expand drilling operations. During his recent confirmation hearing, Senator Mazie Hirono, a Democrat from Hawaii, questioned whether Burgum would prioritize environmental protection or push for increased drilling.
Burgum’s appointment marks stark contrast to President Biden’s focus on addressing climate change, hinting at Trump’s promise to oil executives earlier this year to support his campaign if they contributed significantly to his efforts to roll back Biden’s environmental regulations.
Despite a lack of response from the White House about these issues, Burgum’s spokesman stated that the governor has worked diligently to foster economic growth in North Dakota while sustainably developing its natural resources.
As he prepares for this new level of responsibility in Washington, Burgum has pledged to divest from personal interests linked to oil leases, specifically those with companies like Continental Resources and Hess. His financial disclosures indicated that he would dispose of assets possibly worth up to $200,000, an essential move given the enhanced federal ethics rules concerning potential conflicts of interest.
One notable connection highlighting Burgum’s ties to the oil industry is his friendship with Harold Hamm, the founder of Continental Resources, who has been instrumental in North Dakota’s fracking expansion. Hamm is not only a significant figure in Burgum’s circle but has also advised Trump on energy policy and been influential in Burgum’s path to leading the Interior Department.
During his state-of-the-state address in 2023, Burgum compared Hamm to Teddy Roosevelt for his determination and commitment to changing North Dakota’s landscape. This praise coincided with Hamm’s substantial donation toward a Roosevelt library, a project close to Burgum’s interests.
Records show additional gestures of friendship from Hamm, including a gift of cuff links and a note recognizing Burgum for his previous support and camaraderie during his presidential campaign stint. Furthermore, despite his attempts to gain ground in the political landscape, Hamm’s company heavily financed a super PAC supporting Burgum during his presidential aspirations and contributed to his gubernatorial campaign.
Communication between Burgum and Hamm’s office has been frequent, and one notable email criticized wind energy initiatives, outlining a negative perspective on wind turbines and opposing tax breaks for renewable energy providers.
While Burgum once aimed for North Dakota to be carbon-neutral by 2030, his recent confirmation hearing evidenced a shift in tone regarding renewable energy, where he downplayed its reliability relative to fossil fuels. Documents also reveal that international energy executives frequently sought meetings with him, further underscoring his embedded role within the industry.
Additionally, Burgum’s pro-industry actions while in office have raised eyebrows, as he voted favorably on issues benefiting Continental Resources, despite not disclosing that his family had leased land to the company for drilling.
Burgum’s administration has also promoted a project to construct a pipeline financially supported by Hamm, intended to carry carbon dioxide for deep underground storage in North Dakota. This controversial initiative, aimed at addressing climate concerns, has faced resistance from local landowners wary of property seizure.
Critics argue that Burgum prioritizes oil and gas interests over regulatory responsibilities, with former Agriculture Commissioner Sarah Vogel suggesting he embodies more of an advocacy role for the industry rather than a regulatory one.
Burgum’s connections extend beyond Hamm, with various oil executives showing substantial interest in collaborating with him. Notable figures from major oil companies have sought his attention, reflecting his position as an influential player within the energy sector.
As he embarks on his new role, questions persist regarding whether Burgum will maintain the interests of North Dakota’s resource-producing families or shape national policies that favor the fossil fuel industry, particularly at a time when the conversation around climate change is gaining urgency.
