Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush showered praise on Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt Tuesday after President-elect Trump tapped him to take over as head of the Environmental Protection Agency, calling him the “very best” of all of Trump’s picks for his administration.
In an op-ed, Bush argued that there isn’t anyone more qualified to head up the government agency and pushed back against Democratic claims that Pruitt is an “anti-science boogeyman.”
“I cannot think of a person more suited to lead the Environmental Protection Agency than Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt,” Bush wrote, adding that Pruit is “someone who understands how to rein in an out-of-control bureaucracy and ensure that Washington focuses solely on its core functions.”
“The far left has tried to distort Pruitt’s views in a lame attempt to make him into an anti-science boogeyman,” Bush continued. “The Scott Pruitt I know is far from it. Unlike liberals who want to shut down any rational debate about climate change, Pruitt has acknowledged human impact on the climate and supports a robust discussion about its effects and what the government should and shouldn’t do to address it.”
Pruitt is expected to be met with near universal opposition by Democrats, who are pushing Republicans who are more friendly to climate change to oppose his nomination. Incoming Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has already announced that he will oppose Pruitt’s nomination.
Opposing his nomination is also viewed at as a way to mobilize the Democratic base, particularly those who care about climate-related issues. However, Bush called on Democrats to “put partisanship aside” and confirm Pruitt to the post.
“There have been several strong appointments by President-Elect Donald Trump, and Scott Pruitt is among the very best because I know he will pursue meaningful reforms that will improve people’s lives,” Bush wrote. “I hope all senators can put partisanship aside and resoundingly confirm this proven leader.”
Since Trump won the election, there has been a cooling off between the two former GOP primary opponents as Bush has spoken highly off many of his cabinet and administration selections. Thus far, Bush has signaled support for Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson for secretary of state, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry for secretary of energy and Betsy DeVos to become the new education secretary.
