Head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Resigns Amid Intense Criticism

Scott Pruitt, the head of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, who was praised by Donald Trump for his efforts to roll back certain environmental regulations, resigned on Thursday following intense criticism of his behavior and performance. Reuters reported that Scott Pruitt is a figure in Donald Trump's administration who has created the most significant polarization among supporters and opponents, having revoked many energy and industry regulations, including former President Barack Obama's plan to reduce carbon emissions from power plants. He was also influential in Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the global Paris Agreement on climate change. However, Mr. Pruitt lost his support within Trump's inner circle following revelations of controversial issues such as using first-class flights at taxpayers' expense, excessive security costs, installing a $43,000 soundproof phone booth in his office, and leveraging his position to receive various perks, including renting a discounted house from the wife of an energy lobbyist. In his resignation letter, Pruitt stated, 'The relentless personal attacks on me and my family are unprecedented and have caused great harm to all of us.' Donald Trump announced Pruitt's resignation on Twitter, stating that Andrew Wheeler, the agency's deputy, would temporarily take over management of the agency starting Monday. Mr. Wheeler, considered a lobbyist in the mining industry, is expected to continue Pruitt's policies. Trump tweeted, 'Scott did a tremendous job and I will always be thankful to him.' The report adds that Democrats and environmental activists have welcomed Pruitt's resignation.