The new U.S. Attorney for New Mexico says he will work with tribes on a nation-to-nation basis.

"They expect and they are entitled to a government-to-government relationship with the United States," Ken Gonzales, who was sworn in on Monday, said at a press conference, The Santa Fe New Mexican reported. "I am a representative of the U.S. government. I plan to deal with our tribal leaders exactly that way."

Gonzales grew up in northern New Mexico and lived near the Pojoaque, Nambé and San Ildefonso Pueblos. He worked on Indian issues for Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-New Mexican).

President Barack Obama nominated Gonzales in March. Gonzales was confirmed by the Senate on April 29.

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New federal prosecutor for New Mexico lists his priorities (The Santa Fe New Mexican 5/5)