Kevin Washburn, a professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law and a member of the Chickasaw Nation, recently returned to his position after serving as the Department of the Interior’s Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs for over three years. In an interview with Modrall Sperling, Washburn reflects on his experiences and discusses current issues in Indian law. He highlights the improving relationship between tribes and the federal government, emphasizing the increased recognition of tribal sovereignty and self-governance. Washburn also shares his insights on the challenges and achievements of his tenure, including significant advancements in land into trust, tribal recognition, and increased federal funding for Indian affairs. He expresses pride in building a strong team and addressing critical issues such as youth suicide and economic development. Additionally, Washburn discusses the role of recent Supreme Court decisions in shaping the Department of the Interior’s trust mission, noting the court’s increasingly literal approach to statutory language.Kevin Washburn, a professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law and a member of the Chickasaw Nation, recently returned to his position after serving as the Department of the Interior’s Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs for over three years. In an interview with Modrall Sperling, Washburn reflects on his experiences and discusses current issues in Indian law. He highlights the improving relationship between tribes and the federal government, emphasizing the increased recognition of tribal sovereignty and self-governance. Washburn also shares his insights on the challenges and achievements of his tenure, including significant advancements in land into trust, tribal recognition, and increased federal funding for Indian affairs. He expresses pride in building a strong team and addressing critical issues such as youth suicide and economic development. Additionally, Washburn discusses the role of recent Supreme Court decisions in shaping the Department of the Interior’s trust mission, noting the court’s increasingly literal approach to statutory language.