By Doug Cunningham

George W. Bush is using a recess-appointment to put Richard Stickler in charge of the Mine Safety and Health Administration. According to the United Mineworkers of America the mines that Stickler managed from 1989 – 1996 had worker injury rates double the national average. The U.S. Senate twice sent Stickler’s nomination back to the White House. But Bush is using his presidential power to appoint Stickler to MSHA while the Senate is out of session. Forty coal miners have died on the job so far this year.