From what I’ve heard, Michael Connor seems to be a good man and fine public servant.

Given how little there is on the record about his views, though, I think it’s fair to ask about his history, both in government and in his post-government career at WilmerHale.

As Deputy Secretary of the Interior, Connor didn't have much room to stray from the Administration’s line.

That said, I think it's worth asking if he still supports an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy today. ( https://bit.ly/2Lf62hu )

Similarly, I think it's reasonable to ask if Connor still considers offshore oil production “safe and responsible," especially given the rate at which Trump’s DOI has auctioned leases in the Gulf of Mexico since taking office. ( https://bit.ly/2VXRSDx )

Working at a big law firm shouldn't disqualify someone from office.

That said, given that Twin Metals hired Connor's firm, WilmerHale, to represent its interests after the BLM stopped them from building new mines, I think it's reasonable to ask. https://psmag.com/environment/former-koch-adviser-slashing-conservation-safeguards-at-department-of-interior

I’m not trying to knock Michael Connor here. Again, I’ve been told he’s a good man and did a solid job at Interior.

But the dynamics here—the insularity, the implicit gender bias, the weaponization of race—don't sit well with me and many others in Indian Country.

Because there is, of course, another highly-qualified candidate for the job whose policy chops, progressive bonafides, bipartisan support and community ties are indisputable: that's Rep. Deb Haaland.

Just search #DebforInterior on this website.

cc: @Transition46, @JoeBiden