Overview
- Pearce told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee he does not envision large-scale public land sales and noted the BLM director lacks authority for such disposals under federal law.
- Democratic senators pressed him on past statements favoring land sell-offs, and he declined to say he had fully changed his views, framing prior comments as reflecting constituent frustrations.
- He was unable to answer detailed questions on the administration’s bid to revoke a methane waste rule and on Interior’s requirement that top officials sign off on most renewable energy permits.
- Pearce emphasized prioritizing local input on land-use plans, voiced openness to expanding Nevada’s federal land disposal boundaries, and said he would enforce laws against illegal grazing.
- Conservation, hunting and veterans groups announced organized opposition, while industry and ranching groups and several Republican senators voiced support; ethics filings show he and his wife have begun divesting oil and gas interests with further divestments pledged if confirmed.