New Mexico group opposing federal energy leases employs Biden cabinet member’s daughter
- February 28, 2023
(The Center Square) – A New Mexico-based Native American rights organization that employs the daughter of U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland was involved in a violent protest at the Department of the Interior in late 2021, according to documents obtained by Protect the People’s Public Trust. The organization employs Somah Haaland as a media organizer. Now the group wants to stop federal energy leases in New Mexico.
The violent protest occurred at the Stewart Lee Udall building on Oct. 14, 2021. During the protest, climate activists tried to enter the building. This led to several injuries among DOI security personnel, including one member being hospitalized. The group wanted the federal government to stop oil and gas development on public lands.
When responding to the violent event, the DOI did not condemn the protestors’ actions.