Conservative and business groups are expressing their disapproval with President Obama’s choice to head OSHA. David Michaels’ past writings may be used against him at his confirmation hearing.
In a 2005 article and subsequent book, Doubt is Their Product, Michaels wrote, “Never in our history have corporate interests been as successful as they are today in shaping science policies to their desires.”
The National Association of Manufacturers said Michaels’ approach is always to paint employers as malevolent, and that’s not a quality the business community would like in someone responsible for policing workplace safety.
The White House responded that Michaels is a respected scientist whose resumé includes previous occupational safety work for the Department of Energy.
What experience should the head of OSHA have? Let us know in the Comments Box below.