Quick Action
Update 12/14: Facing opposition from a few Senate Republicans (including Collins), Dourson has withdrawn his nomination!
The Trump administration’s controversial nominee to head the EPA’s chemical safety office is a chemical industry insider with a track record of favoring corporate interests over health safety and the environment. His nomination could come for a vote in the Senate soon. Call and email senators Susan Collins (202) 224-2523 and Angus King (202) 224-5344 ask them to oppose Michael Dourson for assistant EPA administrator.
Environmental Issues Working Group C2A
Update 12/14: Facing opposition from a few Senate Republicans (including Collins), Dourson has withdrawn his nomination!
THE ISSUE
University of Cincinnati toxicologist Michael Dourson is Trump’s nominee for assistant EPA administrator for the agency’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. He has a strong ties to the chemical industry, including a track record for finding in favor of chemical companies that supported his research. Another sticking point: In early September, Dourson was hired by EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt as a special adviser, seemingly sidestepping Senate confirmation in a move that may violate federal law. Many environmental advocacy groups oppose Dourson, including the Environmental Defense Fund, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families. Dourson’s track record also has prompted North Carolina’s two Republican senators, Richard Burr and Thom Tillis, to announce they will oppose his confirmation. Only one more Republican vote is needed to block his nomination and Sen. Collins has signaled she has concerns over his track record.
THE ACTION
Call and email senators King and Collins and ask them to publicly commit to voting NO ON Dourson’s confirmation: Susan Collins (202) 224-2523 and Angus King (202) 224-5344
Suit Up Maine is an independent, all-volunteer grassroots progressive group that seeks to build a more informed and engaged electorate in Maine. Founded in 2016, Suit Up Maine is run by and for Mainers, and is not engaged in fundraising of any kind. Representing thousands of constituents across Maine’s 16 counties, Suit Up Maine raises awareness of and advocates for policies and legislation that promote equity and equality in civil rights, social justice, health care, the environment, education, the economy, and other areas that affect the lives of all people. Suit Up Maine is beholden to issues and action, not parties or politicians.
