David Bernhardt, a former oil and gas lobbyist, is a behind-the-scenes operator who has positioned himself as an ardent opponent of conservation advocates.
The NPS lost an estimated $10 to $11 million in revenue during the partial government shutdown, taking critical funding away from things like park maintenance and visitor services.
Democrats and environmental advocacy groups oppose Bernhardt's nomination due to his background as an oil and mining industry lobbyist.
David Bernhardt, who will step in to fill the role, is a lawyer and lobbyist with strong fossil fuel and water industry ties.
Whether Ryan Zinke is in or out of office, a cohort of right-wing industry advocates still wield huge influence over the DOI.
The former director of the Department of the Interior's policy office opens up about where the agency went wrong—and how to save it.