Washington, DC -- Tonight, it was reported that Department of the Interior’s Inspector General has opened a formal investigation into Ryan Zinke’s real estate dealings with Halliburton’s chair, David Lesar. This comes on the heels of Politico’s bombshell report on a foundation Zinke established and run by his wife, Lola, playing a central role -- and standing to benefit financially -- in a real estate deal backed by David Lesar, Halliburton’s chairman and longtime donor to Zinke’s political campaigns.
Earlier today, House Republicans blocked an attempt to increase funding for Interior’s Inspector General’s office.
In response, Sierra Club Legislative Director Melinda Pierce released the following statement:
“Ryan Zinke’s actions demonstrate that he views his position not as an opportunity to advance the interests of the American people, but rather his own fortunes -- both political and financial. We are pleased the Inspector General is investigating Zinke’s shady dealings.”
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.