On 11 April, the United States Senate confirmed David Bernhardt to lead the Department of Interior. In response, IADC President Jason McFarland issued the following statement:
“As Secretary of the Interior, David Bernhardt’s mandate will be to develop the tremendous natural resources within the U.S., and to ensure that this is done in a safe and environmentally sound manner. The oil and gas industry in the U.S. employs an average of more than 540,000 people, generating more than $61 billion in wages and supports more than $1.2 trillion in U.S. gross domestic product. The contribution of the energy industry to the overall economy of the U.S. is vast, and we are doing so with a clear and consistent focus and commitment to facilitate safe operations. Armed with these facts, drilling contractors look forward to serving as an educative resource to Secretary Bernhardt and the Department on all matters that affect the oil and gas industry to ensure that the U.S. remains an energy powerhouse.”
