Press Releases

Today, Members of the Western Caucus released statements affirming support for Secretary Bernhardt following the release of exonerating report:

"Today we are reminded that contrary to the fantasies of impropriety dreamed up in the heads of Senators, Secretary David Bernhardt is one of the most dedicated, ethical and effective public servants to serve our nation. It is that effectiveness that gives Senators nightmares and results in them concocting schemes to degrade and insult the hardworking people of this Administration. Today’s IG report reiterates that America is well served by Secretary Bernhardt and the people of the Department of the Interior, working each and every day for the American people on behalf of President Donald Trump," said Chairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04).

"Contrary to false allegations lodged at David Bernhardt during his Senate confirmation process, the Inspector General has confirmed Secretary Bernhardt never interfered with scientific findings. Once again, facts have revealed hyper partisanship that has blinded Democrats from focusing on real issues rather than attempting to besmirch dedicated public servants in this Administration. Bernhardt’s years of legal experience and leadership roles within the Department are an asset, and he continues to adhere to strong ethical standards," said Chairman Emeritus Rob Bishop (UT-01).

"Secretary Bernhardt is delivering excellent results for the people of Arizona. The liberal Senators who tried to smear Secretary Bernhardt’s reputation should be ashamed. The IG report has corrected the record, and I hope the Democrats put an end to their efforts to take down the Trump administration," said Chief Regulatory Reform Officer Andy Biggs (AZ-05).

"Secretary Bernhardt has consistently proven himself as a dedicated public servant, and I’m glad to see these baseless allegations against him disproved by the IG report. I’m grateful for the Secretary’s leadership and look forward to working even more with him in the future," said Chief Infrastructure and Forestry Officer Bruce Westerman (AR-04).

"Radical environmentalists continue to throw whatever they can at the wall to create a scandal out of thin air. The IG at the Interior Department made it very clear that no scandal exists; yet attorneys and lobbyists funded by an extreme green lobby see Secretary Bernhardt as a threat to both good jobs for building trades and the reliable development of affordable energy.  Northeastern Minnesota deserves the leadership offered by Secretary Bernhardt and President Trump and not coastal elites outside of our region and our national borders," said Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08).

"Today’s report by the Department of Interior Inspector General dispels the false allegations leveled against Secretary David Bernhardt. The findings confirm that Secretary Bernhardt acted within his authority and in accordance with the Department’s ethics rules. I applaud Secretary Bernhardt for the outstanding job he’s done leading the Department of Interior and meeting the difficult challenge of managing our natural resources," said Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42).

"I am glad to see Secretary David Bernhardt, one of our nation's most stalwart public servants, cleared of the erroneous allegations made during his Senate confirmation process. The IG's report confirms what we all knew; Secretary Bernhardt never interfered with scientific findings by the Department of interior. These allegations were nothing more than a byproduct of House Democrat's continued attempts to smear President Trump's administration, at the expense of good public servants, and the American people. I look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Bernhardt to preserve and protect our nation's lands and natural resources," said Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05).

"Good to see that Secretary David Bernhardt has been exonerated of these false claims. Secretary Bernhardt has been a great partner for Idaho and the West. I applaud his accomplishments and look forward to moving past these baseless allegations," said Congressman Russ Fulcher (ID-01).

Background:

Read the Inspector General's report HERE.