The National Congress of American Indians, the largest inter-tribal organization, added its support to the nomination of Kevin Washburn as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs.

Washburn, who serves as dean of the law school at the University of New Mexico, worked closely with NCAI on the Tribal law and Order Act, which became law in July 2009. He has experience in federal trust and law enforcement, two big issues for the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

"Law enforcement and trust reform will be two of the most important issues for the BIA in the coming years. Kevin's experience as a federal prosecutor will be a great benefit. I am also very glad that he has extensive management experience as Dean at the University of New Mexico," said NCAI President Jefferson Keel. Both Keel and Washburn are members of the Chickasaw Nation.

"The BIA is moving toward a new era as a partner with tribal governments, and I believe that Kevin will be a very strong leader," added Keel.

Relevant Documents:
White House Announcement | Letter to Law School | UNM Press Release | DOI Press Release | Sen. Bingaman | Sen. Tom Udall

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