Statement: Congressman Foster (D-IL) Responds to Reported Nomination of EPA Head

This reported nomination is just another example of the Republican Party's difficult relationship with science. As the only PhD scientist in Congress, I am deeply concerned at the long-term damage this decision will have on our environment. The science is very clear – climate change is real, and human activity is a major contributor. This pick threatens to undo the progress President Obama has made on climate change and protecting our natural resources. Scott Pruitt has a long history of representing the interests of the fossil fuel industry at the expense of the long-term health of our planet and our fellow Americans. The American people deserve leaders who will work for their best interests, not the promotion of special interests. The natural beauty that makes this world so wonderful, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the livelihoods of our children and grandchildren are all at risk if we fail to remain vigilant to threats to our environment.