Interior Nominee Says Trump's Views Could Outweigh Climate Science

"WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump's nominee for Deputy Secretary of the Interior said on Thursday that Trump's economic policy could be take priority over climate science.

In his confirmation hearing in front of the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee, David Bernhardt said that he will consider science on climate change but that Trump's policy opinions that prioritize jobs could outweigh scientific conclusions.

In response to questions from Sen. Al Franken about how he views climate science, Bernhardt said he would look at new science but that 'we're absolutely going to follow the policy perspectives of the president.'"

KNSS/ABC Wichita had the story May 18, 2017.

SEE ALSO:

"Interior: Deputy Pick Grilled On Climate Science, Ethics" (Greenwire)

"Trump Picked This Ex-Lobbyist For Key Interior Position" (McClatchy)

"Trump Nominee Would Pivot From Lobbying To Leading Interior" (Bloomberg)

"Trump's Pick For A Top Interior Post Has Sued The Agency On Behalf Of Powerful California Water Interests" (Los Angeles Times)

"150 Groups Urge Senate to Reject 'Walking Conflict of Interest' Bernhardt for Top Interior Post" (Center for Biological Diversity release)

"Franken Blasts Trump Nominee Bernhardt Over Climate Change" (Washington Examiner)