OKLAHOMA - The U.S. Senate confirms a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma to oversee the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

The Senate approved President Barack Obama's nomiation of Kevin Washburn as Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs late Friday.

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said he is pleased that the Senate acted so quickly to confirm the nomination of Washburn.

Anoatubby said Washburn's knowledge of indian law will enable tribes and the federal government to develop a more effective working relationship.