Earlier this week, the Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) joined several of our joint trade associations in sending a letter to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee urging confirmation of Steve Pearce as the next Bureau of Land Management (BLM) director.
The letter was co-signed by the Western Energy Alliance, the Independent Petroleum Association of America, the International Association of Drilling Contractors, and the U.S. Oil & Gas Association. Collectively, this group represents approximately 80% of domestic oil and natural gas production, signaling a unified industry mandate for experienced federal land management.
The letter expresses support for Pearce and highlighted dual perspective as both a policymaker and a former industry practitioner. Having represented New Mexico in Congress for 14 years and previously operating a small oilfield services company in the Permian Basin, Pearce possesses a foundational understanding of the operational realities facing our members. Pearce’s congressional record reflects a practical approach to public lands. He pushed for faster permitting and leasing reforms while also supporting wilderness designations and conservation efforts. This balance will be critical for his role leading BLM.
As the BLM moves to address the evolving energy landscape of 2026, this balanced approach to resource stewardship is essential. EWTC believes that Pearce’s leadership will provide the regulatory certainty and practical oversight necessary to sustain American energy security while maintaining rigorous environmental standards. We will continue to monitor the confirmation process and provide updates as the Senate committee moves toward a vote.
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