In an interview with the Associated Press, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said he is committed to resolving the Cobell trust fund lawsuit.

Salazar called the case "a blemish on the United States and the Department of Interior." The AP report did not quote other comments by him about the case but in a video clip he said he will consult with Native American communities "as we carry out our trust responsibilities."

The case was filed in June 1996. A federal judge last said the plaintiffs weren't paid $455 million, a decision that is being appealed.

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AP INTERVIEW: Salazar pushes for wind energy (AP 3/9)
VIDEO: Interior Secretary Ken Salazar (AP 3/9)

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