"NOAA Chief, Defending Trump on Dorian, Also Tries to Buoy Scientists"

"HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Neil Jacobs, head of the federal scientific agency threatened with firings after one of its offices contradicted President Trump on Hurricane Dorian, defended the administration Tuesday even as he issued a carefully worded defense of agency scientists.

The remarks were the latest example of a Trump administration official facing enormous political pressure in an atmosphere that prioritizes loyalty above all else.

“This administration is committed to the important mission of weather forecasting,” Dr. Jacobs, acting administrator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said in remarks at a weather conference here. “There is no pressure to change the way you communicate or forecast risk in the future.”"

Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Christopher Flavelle, and Lisa Friedman report for the New York Times September 10, 2019.

SEE ALSO:

"Dorian Flap Spurs Hill Call for Investigations, Dismissals" (Bloomberg Environment)

"NOAA Chief Backs Trump On Alabama Claims, Notes Difficulty Of Forecasting Dorian" (The Hill)

"Democratic Senator Requests Inspector General Probe NOAA's Backing Of Trump On Dorian" (The Hill)

"In Speech To Forecasters, NOAA Chief Tries To Tamp Down Sharpie Controversy" (Ars Technica)

"Wilbur Ross At The Center Of Another Political Storm, This Time About The Weather" (NPR)

 

Source: NY Times, 09/11/2019