Trump Nominates Project 2025 Author as Interior Inspector General

President Donald Trump has nominated Dennis Kirk to serve as the inspector general for the Interior Department. Kirk is a former adviser to Tulsi Gabbard and a co-author of the Project 2025 policy playbook. In this role, Kirk would oversee the office responsible for reviewing the failed renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a project that resulted in algae blooms and peeling linings.

The renovation has drawn scrutiny due to accusations of botched installation and the use of no-bid contracts approved under Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. The White House defended the nomination by citing Kirk's loyalty to the rule of law as the administration seeks Senate approval.

Democrats and former inspector general Mark Greenblatt have criticized the appointment, arguing that placing a political ally in a watchdog position undermines the office's independence. Greenblatt specifically called on the Senate to reject the nomination to ensure the office can investigate the administration without interference.