Zinke confirmed for cabinet; Gianforte, Quist vie to replace

On a 68-31 vote March 1, the U.S. Senate confirmed the appointment of Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke as the Secretary of the Interior under President Trump. Zinke, a Republican, submitted his resignation that day from his post as the only U.S. House member from Montana.

 An election has been scheduled for May 25 to fill the vacancy. In a resignation statement, Zinke said, “I’m resigning not because I do not wish to serve Montana, but rather it is to accept the role of Secretary of the Department of the Interior and serve Montana at a higher level.” 

He vowed to “continue fighting for our public lands.” Zinke’s confirmation prompted a flurry of press releases in reaction. Montana Attorney General Tim Fox expressed confidence his fellow Republican would “continue to be a champion of Montana values.”