Senate Indian Affairs Committee Advances Mark Cruz’s Nomination to Lead Indian Health Service

June 26, 2026 - 06:01

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs voted Thursday to advance the nomination of Mark Cruz to serve as the next director of the Indian Health Service. Cruz, an Oregon resident, was selected by the White House to lead the federal agency responsible for providing healthcare to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, the committee's chair, led the hearing on the nomination and stated her intention to support Cruz. She pointed to his background and experience as key reasons for her confidence. Representative Tom Cole of Oklahoma, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, also spoke in favor of the nominee during the proceedings.

The Indian Health Service has faced longstanding challenges, including chronic underfunding, staffing shortages, and aging infrastructure. Supporters of Cruz argue that his leadership could help address some of these persistent issues. The nomination now moves to the full Senate for a final vote. If confirmed, Cruz will oversee a system that serves roughly 2.6 million Native Americans across the country.