New Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne discussed the Jack Abramoff scandal, Indian education and other issues with members of the media.

Kempthorne called the Abramoff scandal "one of those unfortunate chapters" in politics. He said the disgraced lobbyist's behavior doesn't reflect the "atmosphere and professionalism" of Interior employees.

"I believe that by making one of my first actions on the first day the reaffirmation of the ethics and the public trust, I'm going to keep my eye on the future," he said, The Salt Lake Tribune reported.

Kempthorne wants the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Education Department to work together on improving Indian education. He said he federal government can help Native students make "great things happen."

Kempthorne's first day on the job was Tuesday. He was confirmed by the Senate last Friday.

Get the Story:
New Interior chief discusses woes, solutions (The Arizona Republic 6/2)
New boss vows good ethics will clean up Interior (The Salt Lake Tribune 6/2)

Relevant Links:
Interior Department - http://www.doi.gov

White House Announcement:
President Bush Nominates Dirk Kempthorne as Interior Secretary (March 16, 2006)

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