Interior Secretary Faces Backlash Over Overseas Trip During Shutdown
By Maxine Joselow | The New York Times | Nov. 4, 2025
As the U.S. government shutdown continues to strain federal operations, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum is drawing criticism for embarking on a weeklong trip across the Middle East and Europe. His itinerary includes major energy summits in Abu Dhabi and Athens, where he is promoting U.S. oil and gas exports — a top priority of President Trump’s energy agenda.
Critics argue that Burgum’s travels are ill-timed and tone-deaf given that national parks, which fall under his department, are suffering from vandalism, litter, and low staffing during the shutdown. Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA)called the trip “disconnected,” questioning whether Burgum’s travel — including a helicopter ride with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) — is appropriate at taxpayer expense.
A Department of the Interior spokesperson defended the trip, saying America’s “adversaries don’t take days off.” Supporters, including Senators Dan Sullivan of Alaska and Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, praised Burgum for pursuing energy deals abroad despite the shutdown, noting that his office’s funding remains intact.
Meanwhile, park advocates report widespread damage and illegal activity across sites such as Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Gettysburg, highlighting the domestic fallout from the ongoing budget impasse.