Kathleen Sgamma, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Bureau of Land Management, has withdrawn her nomination following the release of a memo where she criticized the violence at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
A memo published by Documented revealed that Sgamma, who heads the Western Energy Alliance, expressed her disgust at the events at the Capitol and President Trump’s role in inciting the violence. The memo, sent to special members of the alliance, highlighted her disappointment in Trump’s actions following the election results.
Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) announced Sgamma’s withdrawal just before her nomination hearing. Sgamma expressed her continued support for President Trump’s agenda despite withdrawing her nomination.
Sgamma’s withdrawal leaves uncertainty about who will be nominated in her place to lead the Bureau of Land Management.
Senator Lee emphasized the importance of appointing a nominee who understands the complexities of the BLM’s mission and respects local input.