REI retracts Trump-cabinet endorsement, apologizes to members
Apr 11, 2025, 10:39 AM
CEO Mary Beth Laughton has publicly apologized and retracted REI's January endorsement of Doug Burgum. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
CEO Mary Beth Laughton has publicly apologized and retracted REI’s January endorsement of Doug Burgum, President Trump鈥檚 Secretary of the Interior.
REI initially supported Burgum, highlighting his extensive outdoor recreation experience. However, backlash from customers and growing concerns over the Trump administration鈥檚 public land policies鈥攕uch as drilling and land sales鈥攍ed REI to withdraw the endorsement.
Burgum was confirmed on Feb. 1 and also sits on the new “National Energy Council,” which promotes fossil fuel development.
REI reverses course on Burgum endorsement
In 2024, environmental groups raised concerns that the former businessman would prioritize profits for fossil fuel companies over the protection of federal lands. REI initially pushed back against those concerns by signing a letter in support of Burgum鈥檚 nomination.
Laughton admitted the endorsement was a mistake, apologized to REI members, and emphasized the company鈥檚 renewed commitment to protecting public lands.
“We’re launching an effort to unite the business community in defense of our public lands and waters,” Laughton said in a video posted on Instagram.
REI is now partnering with conservation groups to push for transparency and resist public land sell-offs. More than 60 businesses like REI are forming a “” coalition to demand more transparency from Burgum and to prevent the sale of public lands.
