Well one can certainly argue that this road should not be built for environmental or legal precedent reasons. I see both side of that argument to be sure. However, financially the land swap and subsequent development of the road by the native american corp is by far more economical for the federal government. As the article states the Feds have spent 50M already supporting this town long before this administration came into power. They have done over 100 rescues on the taxpayer dime in the last few years not to mention telemedicine efforts, etc, etc. It's pretty clear if you read the article that this is the most effective approach financially. But hey go ahead and rant if it makes you feel justified as a nevertrumper.