Cindy Carr, cindy.carr@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance William Barr’s nomination as Attorney General.
Barr’s troubling record on the environment includes serving on the board of directors for Dominion Energy since 2009 and an expansive view of Presidential prerogatives, that could threaten both the transparency of the Executive Branch 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. If confirmed, Barr will take control overseeing the Mueller investigation, which he criticized in a 20-page memo to the justice department last year.
The full Senate is expected to vote on Barr’s nomination later this month.
In response, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune released the following statement:
“William Barr has repeatedly failed to demonstrate that he will fulfill the duties required of the Attorney General. The American people deserve a chief lawyer who will put the protection of our air and water above corporate polluters’ interests and ensure the continued integrity of the highest office in the land. The Sierra Club calls on the Senate to reject William Barr’s nomination.”
###
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.