Western Values Project released the following statement in response to an Associated Press report that Secretary David Bernhardt’s Interior Department is poised to award one of the first contracts for federal water in perpetuity to the powerful Westlands Water District – Bernhardt’s former lobby client:
“Despite Bernhardt’s clear conflicts of interest and his involvement in decisions that are currently under investigation for ethics violations, he can’t stop carrying water for his powerful former client. The flood gates of corruption flow through Bernhardt, who has manipulated scientific studies, prioritized resources, and tasked staff all to benefit a former client at the expense of the public,” said Jayson O’Neill, Deputy Director of Western Values Project. “Bernhardt’s level of corruption may only be eclipsed by that of his boss, but that should not prevent Congress from initiating an investigation immediately.”
Background:
Breaking: Bernhardt Weakens Endangered Species Protections to Benefit Former Client
Conflicted Interior Secretary Bernhardt Continues to Work Overtime for a Former Client
Government Report Confirms Bernhardt, Other Interior Officials Violating Trump’s Ethics Pledge
Interior’s watchdog opens an ethics probe into Bernhardt four days after his Senate confirmation
BREAKING: Top Interior Official David Bernhardt Caught Carrying Water for Former Client