Trump official faces inquiry over claims he diverted wildfire resources to his own property
Summary
Michael Boren, a senior official in the US Department of Agriculture, is accused of pushing Forest Service staff to send extra firefighting resources to a wildfire near his own ranch in Idaho. Three Democratic senators have asked for a full investigation into whether Boren misused his position and redirected resources away from more serious fires.Key Facts
- Michael Boren is undersecretary of agriculture for natural resources and environment.
- Boren owns a 480-acre ranch near the Cabin Creek Fire in Idaho.
- The Cabin Creek Fire started on July 12 from an unattended campfire and burned seven acres before being fully contained on July 15.
- Multiple Forest Service officials said the response to this small fire was unusually large compared to bigger fires threatening other areas.
- Senators Ron Wyden, Amy Klobuchar, and Martin Heinrich wrote a letter demanding an investigation into Boren’s involvement and how to prevent political interference in wildfire responses.
- The USDA spokesperson said Boren’s involvement was normal for someone in his role and denied that he pressured for more resources.
- The senators are concerned that Boren’s actions could misuse taxpayer funds and put other communities at risk by diverting resources.
- The senators requested a response by September 10 outlining how the Department will stop political interference in firefighting efforts.
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