Gabby Brown, gabby.brown@sierraclub.org
Houston, TX -- Former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, who was forced to resign last year amid multiple ethics investigations, apparently believes he still has a future in government. According to the Houston Chronicle, Zinke told an oil and gas industry gathering yesterday that he “may or may not go back into the administration at a later time,” claiming that Donald Trump did not want him to leave.
Zinke resigned last December as he was the subject of more than a dozen investigations -- including one referred to the Department of Justice for possible criminal charges -- over his repeated ethical violations, misuse of taxpayer funds, and mismanagement of the department.
Lena Moffitt, Senior Director of the Sierra Club’s Our Wild America campaign, released the following statement in response:
“The idea that Ryan Zinke thinks he belongs back in government should be laughable. Zinke led the largest attack on America’s public lands and waters in history on behalf of corporate polluters -- an effort continued by his successor, David Bernhardt -- and repeatedly abused his position for personal gain. The Trump administration has built its reputation by promoting and defending corrupt officials who prioritize corporate polluter profits above all else, so Zinke fit right in. Donald Trump and his remaining corrupt lackeys have continued to aid and abet the fossil fuel industry at the American people's expense. Whether or not Zinke returns, this administration remains an ongoing threat to America's public lands, climate, and communities."
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, 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.