Zinke nomination advances

The presidential nomination of Montana’s lone member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Ryan Zinke, to be Secretary of the Interior moved forward last week. Zinke, a Republican nominated by President Donald Trump, received a 16-6 favorable vote from the Senate Energy Committee. His fellow members of Congress from Montana expressed support. 

“I am pleased to see Congressman Zinke’s nomination move forward,” said Senator Jon Tester, a Democrat. “I look forward to working with him because of his public commitment to protect our outdoor economy, honor our trust responsibilities to Native Ameri- cans, and keep our public lands in public hands.” 

Sen. Steve Daines, a Republican, voiced assurance Zinke will do a great job and represent views of Westerners. Montana Governor Steve Bullock, a Democrat, said he looks forward to working with Zinke.