By Chris CasteelStaff writer ccasteel@oklahoman.comRep. Debra Haaland, President Joe Biden’s nominee to be Interior Secretary, faced tough questions Tuesday from Republicans concerned about her past criticisms of fossil fuel production and the administration’s early actions to curb drilling on public lands. On the first day of her confirmation hearings, the New Mexico Democrat told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee that she understood the need for oil and gas production and that the moratorium on new exploration permits was just to allow for a review of federal policy. “I don’t know when that review will be finished,” she said, adding that “valid and existing leases will move forward.” Haaland, who would be the first Native American cabinet member if she is confirmed, told Oklahoma Sen.Read more on NewsOK.com