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January jobs report: Unemployment rate falls to 4%, wages rise more than forecast; Trump signs order imposing sanctions on International Criminal Court over investigations of Israel; Ten Commandments in public schools debate reaches South Dakota; Virginia ranks among worst states for wage theft; Mexican long-nosed bat makes appearance in Arizona.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi strikes a Trump tone at the Justice Department, federal workers get more time to consider buyouts, and an unclassified email request from the White House worries CIA vets.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

Advocate: Trump nominee could jeopardize environmental progress in UT

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Monday, January 13, 2025   

Russell Vought is one of the key architects behind the conservative, right-wing blueprint Project 2025, and President-elect Donald Trump has tapped him to lead his Office of Management and Budget for a second time.

If confirmed for the position, Vought would have significant influence over the federal government as he determines the president's budget.

David Kieve, president of EDF Action, the advocacy partner of the Environmental Defense Fund, calls Vought unqualified. Kieve said Vought could spell trouble for the environmental progress made around the country and in Utah.

"I know how important the Utah natural environment is, not just to Utah's position as being the host of the upcoming Winter Olympics, but also to the state's travel and tourism industry and its whole economy," Kieve outlined.

Kieve pointed out Vought has demonstrated he intends to get rid of the congressionally mandated National Climate Assessment, a report produced every four years to assess the effects of climate change. Kieve contends it should be cause for concern for anyone who believes what makes Utah so special is its natural environment.

Trump has argued that Vought did a good job under his first term and was able "to cut four regulations for every new regulation."

As the country grapples with the effects of climate change, most recently the devastating fires in Southern California that have left multiple dead and many displaced, Kieve reminded voters of Vought's actions last time he was in office.

"As President Trump's Office of Management and Budget director, he had a heavy hand in delaying federal disaster assistance to Puerto Rico after a number of the extreme weather events that they dealt with," Kieve recounted. "This is not just objectionable, it is really morally reprehensible."

Trump will be sworn into office Jan. 20. Kieve noted the Senate is currently holding hearings to vet various Trump nominees so the president can fill key roles.

Kieve contends outside advocates and concerned citizens also have their role to play.

"Asking tough questions and making sure that nominees who President Trump has put forward are well qualified for these offices," Kieve urged. "We've asked our own tough questions about Russ Vought and found that the answer was unequivocal: He is absolutely not somebody who should be in a position of power."

Disclosure: The Environmental Defense Fund contributes to our fund for reporting on Climate Change/Air Quality, Energy Policy, Environment, and Public Lands/Wilderness. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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