Trump’s pick for Reclamation takes the reins

By Annie Snider | 06/17/2026 01:27 PM EDT

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has named Aubrey Bettencourt acting commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation.

The Department of the Interior building is seen in Washington.

The Department of the Interior is seen in Washington on Dec. 7, 2024. Jose Luis Magana/AP

President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Bureau of Reclamation has landed at the agency.

Aubrey Bettencourt, a Western water and agriculture expert, is listed as principal deputy commissioner for the bureau on Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s most recent order delegating leadership authorities. The order also taps her to perform the duties of the commissioner.

The Interior Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Last week, a White House official confirmed to POLITICO that Bettencourt will be nominated to lead Reclamation, although it has not yet been sent to the Senate for consideration. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the nomination’s status.

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