“It is clear that some Republicans were posturing rather than looking at the merits of this nomination,” an administration official said. Wodder was nominated in June.
Wodder cleared the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee over
GOP opposition in December, but, lacking votes, was not brought up for a
vote in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Some conservative Democrats have also expressed concerns about Wodder.
Wodder will have a role at Interior, however, working on conservation efforts including the America’s Great Outdoors program, which is an administration outdoor recreation and conservation initiative.
“Based on her extensive experience and expertise, the Secretary has asked her to serve as a senior advisor, working primarily on conservation issues and the America’s Great Outdoors initiative,” Fetcher said.
Some senior Republicans cheered the decision not to seek Wodder’s confirmation.
“From the very beginning there were serious concerns and questions raised about this failed nominee’s previous employment and ability to adequately represent broader interests at the federal level,” said Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Wash.), the chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee.
Rachel Jacobson will continue serving in the assistant secretary’s role on an acting basis, Interior said.