×

Our Opinion: Sooner is better

Several of President Donald Trump’s key nominees have been confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Even a few about whom partisan bickering was strident have been approved.

But Scott Pruitt, the Oklahoma attorney general nominated to head the Environmental Protection Agency, continues to cool his heels. Other high-level EPA posts also remain on the back burner.

So it should have come as no surprise that the White House decided that if Democrats are intent on keeping the EPA rudderless, it would be a good idea to shut down the engine room, too. It was revealed Tuesday that the Trump administration has ordered what The Associated Press called a “contract freeze and media blackout” at the EPA. The agency has been ordered not to award new contracts or grants, not to issue press releases and not to update the agency’s social media accounts. Inquiries from reporters are to be directed to the Trump Office of Administration and Resources Management.

Existing infrastructure programs and pollution cleanup efforts are not affected by the contract freeze. Only new activity is banned.

Given several shocking actions taken by former President Barack Obama’s administration during his final days in office, Trump’s action regarding the EPA is understandable. With the agency being run by Obama  appointees, the new president may well worry it will launch new initiatives before he can get his team in place.

Still, walling the agency off from contact with the press should concern those of any political persuasion who worry about government behind closed doors.

It was expected the communications ban would end later this week, an official of Trump’s transition team told reporters. The sooner the better. And the sooner senators confirm Pruitt and other key EPA officials, the better. The agency’s work is important and, where there is no disagreement about broad policy, needs to be pursued without interruption or delay. Where there is disagreement — and there is plenty — Pruitt, in consultation with the White House, should be setting direction as soon as possible.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today