Trump Oversight Takes Shape as Democrats Send Notice to More Than 60 Targets
Letters Signal Possible Inquiries
Democrats on the House Science Committee sent letters Thursday morning to more than 60 companies, individuals and agencies. The notices identify recipients as potential targets of investigations into actions by the Trump administration.
Research and Climate Concerns
Among the concerns is an attempt to dismantle a leading climate and weather research institution. The committee is also examining cuts to scientific research and the rollback of environmental protections.
Another focus is an organized campaign to discredit climate science ahead of a broad regulatory rollback. The letters raise questions about how those efforts were pursued.
Business Deal and Political Shift
The committee’s concerns also include a White House deal with a rare earths company that the letters describe as lucrative. The article characterizes the deal as unorthodox.
Key points
- House Science Committee Democrats notified more than 60 potential investigation targets.
- The letters concern research cuts, environmental rollbacks and business dealings.
- Recipients were told not to destroy documents, pointing to possible inquiries next year.
- Lawmakers said last week’s election changed their ability to compel information.