Naabik’iyati’ Committee Advances Confirmation of Sharlene Begay-Platero as DED Director

Sharlene Begay-Platero cleared a key hurdle when the Naabik’íáti’ Committee voted 11 in favor and five opposed to advance Legislation No. 3026 supporting her confirmation as Executive Director of the Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development, sending the measure to the full Navajo Nation Council for final consideration.

The committee action took place Feb. 26 at Window Rock and followed what the council described as extensive questioning on Begay-Platero’s qualifications, leadership approach, and plans to strengthen economic growth across the Navajo Nation. The Office of the Speaker issued a notice the following day summarizing the committee’s approval and next steps.

RDC Chair Brenda Jesus framed the confirmation around internal stability and staff retention, saying, “Begay-Platero’s professional approach to employee retention is imperative because employees in any entity are the backbone of its success.” Jesus added, “We expect her to continue building a stable, accountable Division that delivers lasting economic opportunities for the Navajo Nation.”

Sponsor Delegate Danny Simpson urged colleagues to back the nomination, emphasizing operational and community needs. “Economic development requires steady leadership and someone who understands both the technical process and the needs of our communities,” Simpson said. He also stated, “Begay-Platero has demonstrated hands-on leadership, moved key projects forward, and shown a commitment to restoring trust and accountability within the Division.”

Begay-Platero has served as Acting Director since September and brings 34 years of experience in Navajo Nation economic development, the council’s announcement said. During her confirmation hearing she outlined progress made under her leadership and described structural challenges that continue to affect the Division, according to the hearing summary provided by council staff.

Legislative records show a tracking entry listed as 0030-26 with the title confirming Begay-Platero’s appointment and naming Danny Simpson as sponsor, while council materials and news summaries cite Legislation No. 3026 as the item advanced by the Naabik’íáti’ Committee. The council statement and the tracking entry both identify the same sponsor and subject but use different numbering formats.

With the Naabik’íáti’ Committee vote complete, the nomination now awaits final consideration by the 25th Navajo Nation Council. The committee tally reported 11 yes votes and five no votes, but roll-call names for those votes were not published in the committee summary released alongside the announcement. The full council’s timing for debate and a final confirmation vote has not been reported.