Former Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt has joined the Board of Directors of Trump Media and Technology Group.
Bernhardt was a former lobbyist for Westlands Water District before joining the Trump administration in President Donald Trump’s first term.
The big picture: Bernhardt will replace Kash Patel on the board. Patel stepped down on Thursday after being confirmed by the Senate as the new Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
- He was the Interior Secretary from 2019 to 2021, following a couple years as the Department’s Deputy Secretary.
- In his role, Bernhardt managed over 70,000 employees who oversaw public lands, national parks, monuments and wildlife refuges.
What they’re saying: Trump Media CEO Devin Nunes said Patel was crucial to the growth and trajectory of the company and congratulated him on his confirmation as FBI Director.
- “Simultaneously, we’re thrilled to have David Bernhardt join the Board,” Nunes said. “With his incredibly expansive background in governance, energy resources, land management, and many other fields, Dave is a great addition to the Board as we look forward to diversifying TMTG into new industries and continue our explorations of possible mergers and acquisitions.”
