Johnson Hangs Tough

EPA chief won't back down on unpopular California auto-emissions decision

Posted at 3:58 PM on 24 Jan 2008

U.S. EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson appeared before Senate Democrats today to defend his decision to deny California's auto-emissions waiver. Johnson stood his ground while senators assailed his decision as in the pocket of special interests, logic-defying, "shameful," "outrageous," "irresponsible," and "unconscionable." Responded Johnson, "I evaluated all the data, I made the decision, it's the right decision. I was not directed by anyone to make the decision." Wait -- is Johnson the Decider? Now we're all confused. Sen. Barbara Boxer has said she will introduce a bill that would reverse Johnson's decision.

sources:  Associated Press, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post