Hannah Mersbach

The Western Energy Alliance, which represents oil and gas companies, says the seven-term conservative congressman understands the value of energy development.

Republican Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lemus says his nomination's a major win for the West.

Ritzman says Pierce has a reputation for promoting oil and gas drilling on federal land.

The League of Conservation Voters has classified 96% of Ritzman's votes on key issues for them as anti-environment.

If confirmed, he'll oversee a quarter billion acres of public land.

For NPR News, I'm Hannah Mersbach in Jackson, Wyoming.