Lauren Lantry, lauren.lantry@sierraclub.org
After months of preparation, Scott Pruitt failed to answer for his near endless scandals and illegal actions. Now, even his staunchest supporters are reportedly questioning whether Pruitt’s baggage is even worth it. He had months to prepare for today, and he even turned down overtures from the White House. When it came time to face Congress, Scott Pruitt was unable to answer Republicans, let alone Democrats’ questions. Instead he lied, he tried to deflect the blame, and he obfuscated. But at no point did Scott Pruitt ever answer for the fact that he’s abused taxpayer funds, that he’s ignored Donald Trump’s orders, and that he’s failed to uphold the public’s trust.
Here’s a quick recap of Pruitt’s day:
Pruitt admitted to greenlighting raises for his top aides, despite Donald Trump’s orders not to and Pruitt’s previous denial.
Pruitt either lied, or isn’t in control of his own agency.
Pruitt tried to pass the blame on the illegally paid for $43,000 phone booth -- despite his request initiating the process.
Representative Frank Pallone told Pruitt “you’re an embarrassment to the President,” and “unfit to hold public office”
Pruitt declined multiple times to answer whether he felt any remorse at all for wasteful spending at the agency.
When asked by Republican Rep. Ryan Costello, Pruitt provided insufficient answers to excuse excessive spending, failing to assuage even Republicans.
When asked by Republican Rep. Leonard Lance, Pruitt failed to explain the need for a duplicative soundproof phone booth.
Pruitt’s lobbyist landlord charged others twice as much -- $100 a night -- just to hold events at the same condo.
Republican Rep. Pete Olson told Pruitt he “works at the pleasure of the President” whose own staff isn't supporting Pruitt.
When asked why he flies first class by Republican Rep. Joe Barton, Pruitt gave the flimsy excuse that it isn’t illegal.
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