Cindy Carr, cindy.carr@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the Senate voted to confirm William Barr as Attorney General.
Barr’s troubling record on the environment includes serving on the board of directors for corporate polluters Dominion Energy since 2009 and an expansive view of Presidential prerogatives that could threaten both the transparency of Executive Branch activity and the consistent enforcement of federal laws protecting the public.This is particularly concerning given the Trump Administration’s demonstrated affinity for favoring corporate polluters and the extent to which former fossil fuel executives and lobbyists hold positions of authority within the Administration. Barr also has a problematic record on immigration, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and women’s rights. Barr will take control overseeing the Mueller investigation, which he criticized in a 20-page memo to the justice department last year.
In response, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune released the following statement:
“William Barr has repeatedly proven he does not meet the minimum criteria to fulfill the duties required of the Attorney General, and his installation as chief lawyer does a grave disservice to the American people. The protection of our air, water, and democracy must be prioritized above corporate polluters’ and Donald Trump’s interests.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3 million members and supporters. In addition to helping people from all backgrounds explore nature and our outdoor heritage, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.