Bonamici Statement on Resignation of EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt

WASHINGTON, DC [7/5/18] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) issued the following statement on the resignation of EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt:

"Scott Pruitt's resignation was overdue. During his tenure at the Environmental Protection Agency, he repeatedly put the nation at risk by directing the agency to act counter to its mission of protecting public health and the environment. He censored research on climate change, misused limited EPA resources, and jeopardized the agency's ability to obtain independent scientific advice. The reports of his engagement in potential anti-lobbying violations, his demonstrated conflicts of interest, and his use of taxpayer dollars to fund extravagant travel and security measures are unethical and a disgrace.

"As the top Democrat on the Science Committee's Environment Subcommittee, I take my responsibility seriously to protect the environment and address the effects of climate change. I will continue to fight back against regulations Pruitt initiated to roll back the Clean Power Plan, Clean Water Rule, and Clean Air Act.

"The EPA Administrator should be strengthening laws to protect the health and safety of our communities. I'm calling on President Trump to nominate someone who will defend clean air, water, and the planet we all need to live healthy, productive lives."

Bonamici repeatedly called on Pruitt to resign and took actions to hold him accountable, including co-sponsoring a resolution that expressed no confidence in the former EPA administrator and urging the President to request a resignation. She expressed deep concerns about Pruitt's ability to lead the EPA from the moment he was nominated.

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