Former chief of staff to the White House Council on Environmental Quality Phillip Cooney -- best known for his role in altering scientific conclusions in the U.S. government's climate reports -- has landed a cushy new job with Exxon-Mobil, according to Scott McClellan at yesterday's White House Press Briefing.
Question: Scott, on Philip Cooney, you said earlier today that the White House has been -- that he had been looking at other options for some time. With his move to Exxon, are there concerns now about at least an appearance of impropriety? Today you had Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid comment on this, saying that "the revolving door between the White House and big oil swung open again." Are you concerned that perhaps this is becoming, or could become a distraction from the President's agenda?
MR. McCLELLAN: I think it's unfortunate that some are trying to divert attention away from what is a strong record of addressing the long-term challenge we face from climate change. This administration has moved forward on initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This administration has moved forward to reduce greenhouse gas intensity by 18 percent, come 2012. And we're on track to meet that commitment. This administration has worked with partners around the world to move forward in partnership on initiatives that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The President launched the methane-to-markets initiative. This is an initiative that will significantly reduce a greenhouse gas emission, and also provide cleaner burning electricity to people. Those are significant efforts.
We have invested billions of dollars in research when it comes to better understanding the science of climate change. We are investing in new technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. So that's just simply someone trying to divert attention away from what is a strong record, when it comes to addressing climate change.
Question: But are you concerned at all that maybe this might gain some momentum, and perhaps become a larger distraction than it is right now?
MR. McCLELLAN: That what may gain some momentum? And what impropriety were you referring to?
Question: Well, Cooney's move to Exxon -- I'm asking if there is any concern about an appearance, at the very least, by some --
MR. McCLELLAN: Look, in terms of this individual, we wish him well. We appreciate his service.
And what service Cooney gave! I'm just glad he was rewarded so handsomely for his efforts.
