America’s national parks are not businesses. They are public treasures — protected lands that belong to every American.

The National Park Service has traditionally been led by individuals with deep experience in conservation, land stewardship, and public service. That experience matters. Running our parks is not just about managing lodging or concessions — it is about protecting wildlife, preserving history, maintaining fragile ecosystems, and ensuring access for future generations.

President Trump has nominated a hospitality executive to lead the agency. While private-sector experience has value, the head of the National Park Service should have a proven background in conservation and public land management.

At a time when the Park Service faces staffing shortages and growing environmental pressures, leadership grounded in stewardship is more important than ever.

This is not a partisan issue. Americans across the political spectrum cherish our national parks — from Yellowstone to Yosemite to the Great Smoky Mountains. Hunters, hikers, veterans, families, and small businesses all depend on strong, conservation-focused leadership.

We urge the United States Senate to confirm only a nominee who demonstrates clear, professional experience in conservation, environmental protection, and public land stewardship.

Our national parks are America’s crown jewels. They deserve leadership rooted in preservation — not profit.