Trump appoints climate critic Wielicki

The Trump administration appointed Matthew M. Wielicki, a former geochemist and climate science critic, to lead the United States — U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP), which oversees the United States — National Climate Assessment (NCA). Wielicki, who lacks formal climate science training, has frequently argued that mainstream climate views are too dire. The administration had previously dismissed hundreds of scientists working on the next NCA. The appointment has drawn criticism from environmental groups and scientists, who question Wielicki's qualifications and fear the NCA's integrity may be compromised. Energy Secretary Chris Wright defended the appointment, calling Wielicki an honest scientist. The United States — White House stated the USGCRP had been used for political agendas and they aim to restore its focus on sound science.