Breaking: Bernhardt Weakens Endangered Species Protections to Benefit Former Client

Statement by Western Values Project Deputy Director Jayson O’Neill:

“Once again, Interior Secretary Bernhardt — the Trump administration’s most conflicted and corrupt cabinet member — has put the wishlist of his former clients above what’s best for America’s lands and natural resources. This egregious decision to weaken these protections has always been about appeasing Bernhardt’s powerful former lobbying client, the Westlands Water District. The cascading effects of the former mega-lobbyist pulling Interior’s levers of power for his special interest pals will have lasting and damaging impacts.” 

LA Times: Trump team weakens endangered species protections for California salmon and delta smelt

Background

Interior Dept. Opens Ethics Investigation of Its New Chief, David Bernhardt

A report shows Trump’s water plan would hurt California salmon. The government hid it

Conflicted Interior Secretary Bernhardt Continues to Work Overtime for a Former Client

New Report Details Extensive Conflicts of Interest as Interior Secretary Bernhardt’s Recusals are Set to Expire

Bernhardt’s “Recusal” Period a Boon to Former Clients & Special Interests

ICYMI: Watchdog Group Calls for Ethics Investigation into Acting Interior Secretary David Bernhardt

BREAKING: Top Interior Official David Bernhardt Caught Carrying Water for Former Client

Join the effort to strengthen the American West.