The revelation that the Biden Administration’s nomination for Director of the Bureau of Land Management was deeply involved in a tree-spiking effort in Idaho in 1989, slowed down, but did not stop the committee approval of Tracy Stone-Manning. She advanced out of committee on an even party-line vote of 10-10.
Now, as she faces the full Senate, Senator Barrasso from Wyoming is demanding that the Senate delay her hearing until she provides details on a $100,000 transaction she claims was a loan from a friend while serving on the staff of Montana Senator Tester. Senate ethics rules require the reporting of loans that are $250 or more, unless they are acquired through a commercial institution. Stone-Manning failed to do so, and now has failed to provide documents that verify she paid off the note as claimed.
“At best, Ms. Stone-Manning has done a poor job of recordkeeping,” Mr. Barrasso said. “At worst, Ms. Stone-Manning profited from her senior position in government in which she was capable of influencing federal, state, and local policy.” (As quoted in The Washington Times, August 9, 2021)
Representative Bruce Westerman from Arkansas has delivered a letter to the White House, signed by 75 colleagues, demanding the White House withdraw her nomination. At least nine counties in Utah have called for her nomination to be withdrawn as well. And the American Loggers Association representing members in 30 states, have also demanded she be opposed by the Senate.
