Krieger and State Lawmakers Call on PSU President to Provide Information on Internal ClimateGate Investigation
The following letter signed by Representative Tim Krieger (R-Westmoreland) and nearly two dozen other State Representatives was mailed to Penn State University President Graham Spanier on Tuesday:
“Dear Dr. Spanier:
It has come to our attention that Penn State University Associate Professor Michael E. Mann has been implicated in a scheme to withhold and destroy scientific evidence that does not support his views on climate change. From press reports, Dr. Mann has confirmed his involvement and the authenticity of certain emails, which taken together, suggest his active participation in this scheme. As a public university and a recipient of hundreds of millions of dollars of state taxpayer monies annually, the people of this Commonwealth have every right to demand an explanation of Dr. Mann’s conduct.
We understand and appreciate that the university has commenced an internal investigation of the alleged misconduct. Given the seriousness of the allegations, however, we question whether an internal investigation is the appropriate way to proceed in this matter. Public confidence would perhaps best be served through an investigation by an appropriate committee of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, or by a third party independent of the University.
Before coming to a conclusion on that question, however, we request the following detailed information on the ongoing internal investigation:
- The proposed scope of the investigation;
- The date by which the investigation is to be concluded;
- The date by which the General Assembly will receive a written report detailing the findings, to include proposed sanctions on Dr. Mann should the allegations be substantiated.
Though deeply troubled by the allegations, we will of course withhold judgment until in receipt of all the facts.
Intellectual dishonesty, such as that alleged in this matter, has no place in any institution of higher learning, and certainly not in one supported by public tax dollars.
To condone or accept such behavior would be to turn academic freedom on its head, and to replace it with the intellectual tyranny of those who would suppress any and all competing viewpoints.
We await your prompt response.”
Rep. Tim Krieger
57th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(724) 834-6400
Contact: Ty McCauslin
House Republican Public Relations
(717) 772-9979