Watt, James G. (1938–)

James g. watt served as the U.S. Secretary of the Interior from January 23, 1981, to November 8, 1983, during President Ronald Reagan's first term. Watt is a Wyoming native and a staunch Republican. Prior to being appointed to the Interior position, Watt drew the attention of President Reagan for his work as founder and leader of the Mountain States Legal Foundation (MSLF), an organization that supported and encouraged the expanded extraction of oil, timber, and mineral resources. The MSLF was identified as a strong antienvironmental organization. Earlier in his governmental career Watt worked as Secretary to the Natural Resources Committee and Environmental Pollution Advisory Panel of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In 1969, Watt received appointment as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Water and Power ...