A recent report from Protect The Public’s Trust has raised concerns about the Biden-Harris administration's assertions of being the most ethical and transparent in history. The 26-page report challenges the administration's promises of bringing transparency and truth back to government, citing various alleged ethics violations across different government agencies.
The report highlights issues within the White House, including allegations of ethics violations by the Office of White House Counsel and concerns about the handling of classified documents. It also questions the actions of White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and former press secretary Jen Psaki regarding potential violations of the Hatch Act and conflicts of interest.
Regarding the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the report criticizes the agency for disregarding ethical and scientific integrity principles during the COVID-19 pandemic. It mentions several complaints filed against HHS appointees to address potential violations and maintain public trust.
The Department of Interior (DOI) and the Department of Energy are also scrutinized in the report for alleged ethical lapses in favor of special interests. The report suggests a pattern of questionable ethics decisions within these agencies.
Michael Chamberlain, Director of Protect the Public’s Trust, expressed concerns about the administration's ethics record, pointing out confirmed Hatch Act violations, conflicts of interest, and the influence of well-connected activist groups. The report emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in government, urging vigilance against attempts to portray the administration as scandal-free.
The report concludes by noting that many documented complaints have triggered investigations by oversight bodies and congressional committees. It underscores the role of transparency in holding government officials accountable and dispelling any myths of a flawless administration.