About David L. Bernhardt
53RD UNITED STATES SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR
David Bernhardt is a distinguished leader with a proven track record of public service and leadership. His remarkable career includes leading multiple federal agencies and earning the trust of two Presidents — George W. Bush and Donald J. Trump — who nominated him to serve as a principal officer in their administrations. David’s exceptional expertise and commitment have been recognized with Senate confirmations on three distinct occasions.
Beyond his federal service, David also made his mark at the state level, serving on a State Wildlife Commission, showcasing his commitment to environmental and wildlife conservation.
As the author of “You Report to Me”, David shares insights into leadership and governance that reflect his extensive experience. A regular feature on various media outlets, David is also deeply committed to charitable endeavors, actively contributing to the betterment of communities and causes he believes in. His dynamic career and ongoing involvement in public discourse and philanthropy underscores his dedication to making a significant impact both within and beyond the corridors of power.
Founded in 2021 by David Bernhardt, a former Cabinet Secretary with an illustrious career spanning roles as an attorney, public servant, and author, 53 Solutions LLC provides business consulting services. Our foundation rests on a wealth of real-world experience gained from leading government agencies. This unique experience and perspective enables us to offer unparalleled insights and strategies to individuals and organizations to deliver better results for both our partners and the American people.
David in the News
You Report to Me
Accountability for the Failing Administrative State
Only a short while ago, it was unimaginable that our nation would face a baby formula shortage facilitated by a bureaucratic delay, or witness the national massive embarrassment of flawed military and diplomatic action, such as the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Yet, our leaders and our federal agencies consistently fail the American people, despite the massive growth of these institutions.
When I became Secretary of the Interior in the Trump Administration, I witnessed the full dysfunction of our federal agencies and learned that America’s sprawling civil service was often unresponsive to the will of the nation’s chief executive. In fact, agency staff aligned with the ideology of one political party often worked to actively “resist” the other. Meanwhile, our elected officials in Congress happily punted significant questions of public policy to those unaccountable agencies.
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