Fox trough

A high level political appointee at the Interior Department -- the part of the government that, according to its mission statement, is supposed "to protect and provide access to our Nation's natural and cultural heritage" -- was sending emails that included internal documents to at least one oil company and other businesses and development advocates.

Julie MacDonald, the deputy assistant secretary for fish, wildlife and parks, also "bullied, insulted and harassed the professional staff" of the Interior Department to alter reports, making them more favorable to business interests, according to a report by the department's own inspector general.

It's a pattern we've come to expect from the Bush Administration. The foxes have totally infiltrated the henhouse. Professional personnel with years of experience are being overruled by political appointees who come out of the boardrooms of companies that are diametrically opposed to the mission of the department. It is despicable and unethical. Our only hope is to oust this administration while there is still something left to save.