WASHINGTON –  Donald Trump today signed two executive orders to advance construction on the controversial Dakota Access and Keystone XL Pipelines. DNC Chair Donna Brazile released the following statement:

“With the stroke of a pen, Donald Trump just sided with big business and big oil, sent a clear signal to climate deniers that he’s on their side, and trampled on the rights of Native Americans.

“These projects will ship dirty fossil fuels across the country, risking immeasurable environmental damage without creating any meaningful economic boost or reducing our dependence on foreign energy. The Dakota pipeline clearly never underwent an appropriate review in consultation with nearby residents and the tribal leaders who raised serious concerns about its location and its potential to poison Lake Oahe, a major source of drinking water.

“Democrats accept the scientific facts of climate change and believe we should invest in long-term, renewable energy solutions. We also believe that we must respect the property rights of Native and rural landowners who would be forced to live with the consequences of any oil spills, even as corporations continue to reap profits from afar. We will hold Donald Trump accountable every time he abuses the power of our highest office to put corporate profits over people or accelerate climate change.”

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