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Bernie Sanders Slams EPA Nominee Scott Pruitt at Confirmation Hearing

HeadlineJan 19, 2017

The unprecedented warming of the planet due to human-caused climate change comes as Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt underwent his confirmation hearing to be the head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Pruitt has long denied the overwhelming scientific consensus on climate change. Dozens of people protested outside his hearing. At least three people were arrested, including Lakota water protector Joann Spotted Bear, who was arrested while in prayer. This is Scott Pruitt being questioned by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Sen. Bernie Sanders: “So you are applying for a job as administrator for the EPA to protect our environment. Overwhelming majority of scientists say we have got to act boldly. And you’re telling me that there needs to be more debate on this issue?”

Scott Pruitt: “It’s a debate hall.”

Sen. Bernie Sanders: “I’m asking your personal opinion.”

Scott Pruitt: “My personal opinion is immaterial to the—”

Sen. Bernie Sanders: “Really?”

Scott Pruitt: “—to the job of—to the job of carrying out—”

Sen. Bernie Sanders: “You are going to be the head of the agency to protect the environment, and your personal feelings about whether climate change is caused by human activity and carbon emissions is immaterial?”

Scott Pruitt: “Senator, I’ve acknowledged to you that the human activity impacts the climate.”

Sen. Bernie Sanders: “Impacts. If that’s the kind of EPA administrator you will be, you’re not going to get my vote.”

We’ll have more on Pruitt’s confirmation hearing later in the broadcast.

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