The Senate on Monday advanced the nomination of former Rep. Steve Pearce to lead the Bureau of Land Management and is expected to confirm the New Mexican as well as other energy and environment nominees in the coming days.
The Senate approved a procedural motion on a 46-45 vote to move ahead with the confirmation of 49 nominees en bloc. The chamber must still vote to confirm those nominees, including Pearce.
Confused by new senate rules allowing for the en bloc approval of certain administration pics, several media outlets and environmental groups said Pierce had been confirmed. A spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said a vote on final confirmation is expected early next week.
Pearce, a Republican who served in the House and made failed bids for Senate and governor, is among the most contentious nominees in the package.
