On Wednesday, the Senate Natural Resources Committee advanced the nomination of Steve Pearce to lead the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). A full Senate vote will be required in the coming weeks for confirmation. Pearce, a former Republican congressman from New Mexico, received support from energy and grazing groups, including a coalition of oil and gas associations.
The nomination has drawn scrutiny from environmentalists, some veterans, and Democrats. During a recent hearing, Pearce stated he would not be in favor of selling public lands. However, Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., expressed distrust in Pearce’s response and announced his opposition to the nomination, citing the oversight of 245 million acres of federal lands.
The committee voted 11-9 to advance Pearce’s nomination, with Senator Jim Risch, R-Idaho, stating he received assurances from Pearce that Notice no plans to sell off Idaho’s public lands.
Elsewhere in the region, Clark County has issued a dust advisory for Thursday, beginning at 8 a.m., due to an expected Air Quality Index level considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Wind gusts up to 45 mph are anticipated. The Bureau of Land Management’s Las Vegas Field Office is also closing certain public lands near Jean, Nevada, on Friday and Saturday for the Mint 400 off-road race.
In sports news, the Vegas Golden Knights acquired center Nic Dowd from the Washington Capitals in exchange for draft picks and a young goaltender. Dowd, 35, has 16 points and 43 blocked shots in 55 games this season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What action did the Senate Natural Resources Committee capture regarding Steve Pearce’s nomination?
The Senate Natural Resources Committee voted to advance Steve Pearce’s nomination to lead the Bureau of Land Management.
What is the status of the Mint 400 off-road race?
The Mint 400 off-road race will take place this weekend, resulting in the closure of certain public lands near Jean, Nevada, on Friday and Saturday.
What did the Vegas Golden Knights do on Thursday?
The Vegas Golden Knights acquired center Nic Dowd from the Washington Capitals in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick, a 2029 second-rounder and young goaltender Jesper Vikman.
As the Senate considers Steve Pearce’s confirmation, what role do you believe public land management should play in balancing economic development and environmental conservation?
