The Vivicent Wellness Foundation (VWF) proudly acknowledges the nomination of William “Billy” Kirkland III, a distinguished member of the Navajo Nation, for the position of Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Mr. Kirkland’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication to Native American communities position him as an exemplary candidate for this pivotal role.

VWF is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the well-being and sovereignty of Indigenous populations. We are confident that under Mr. Kirkland’s leadership, significant strides will be made in advancing policies and programs that honor the rich heritage and address the unique challenges of Native American tribes.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Kirkland and look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to Indian Affairs.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren has expressed strong support for the nomination of William “Billy” Kirkland III as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. In an interview with Native News Online, President Nygren stated, “I am pleased that the Trump administration has selected someone of his high caliber. Mr. Kirkland is well-positioned to accomplish significant work for both the administration and Indian Country.”

Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, previously served as Special Assistant to the President during Trump’s first term. Following the recent inauguration, he attended a reception in Washington, D.C., where he was honored by the Coalition of Large Tribes (COLT). At the event, Kirkland emphasized the importance of tribal involvement, stating, “Anytime we can get Indian Country more involved, whether it’s here in Washington, or in the states, we definitely want to do so. I know the White House will continue to have an open door policy with all the tribal nations.”

Raised in Georgia, Kirkland earned a B.A. in political science and government from the University of Georgia. His political career includes managing Senate campaigns for David Perdue in 2014 and Kelly Loeffler in 2020, serving as a senior advisor to Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign in Georgia, and working as a senior strategist for Vice President Mike Pence.

Former Navajo Nation Vice President Myron Lizer, who was also considered for the Assistant Secretary position, has voiced his support for Kirkland’s nomination. Lizer remarked, “Billy Kirkland is a friend of mine. He had the inside track as he worked in the White House. I expect Billy to be a solid pick for Assistant Secretary. I also expect to continue to have access to BIA and offer some solid recommendations as I know Billy and I have worked really well. I will hold him to truly working hard for Navajo and Indian Country.”

Upon Senate confirmation, Kirkland will succeed Bryan Newland (Bay Mills Indian Community), who concluded his tenure at the end of the Biden-Harris administration.

President Donald Trump has nominated William “Billy” Kirkland III, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, to serve as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Kirkland, who previously served as Special Assistant to the President and Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Affairs during Trump’s first term, brings extensive experience in political strategy and Native American affairs. His nomination has been referred to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for confirmation.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed strong support for Kirkland’s nomination, stating that he is “well-positioned to accomplish significant work for both the administration and Indian Country.”

The Coalition of Large Tribes (COLT) also endorsed Kirkland, highlighting his accessibility and understanding of tribal sovereignty. COLT Chairman J. Garret Renville noted, “He was accessible. He was helpful. He was a good listener.”

If confirmed, Kirkland will succeed Bryan Newland (Bay Mills Indian Community), who concluded his tenure at the end of the Biden-Harris administration.

Kirkland’s nomination reflects a continued commitment to fostering strong government-to-government relationships between the federal government and Native American tribes, ensuring that the voices and concerns of Indigenous communities are effectively represented at the highest levels of government.