Whether they realize it or not, the National Weather Service plays a crucial role in Americans’ everyday lives. Without the data collected by the federal agency, which falls under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), not only would the weather forecasts on television or phone screens likely not exist, neither would crucial warnings regarding weather events that could endanger thousands. Which is why one would think any government administration would want to protect it.

But as John Oliver points out in the latest episode of “Last Week Tonight,” “Everything Trump does is designed to destroy government from the inside.” Which is the main reason the comedian can find for the president’s insistence on nominating former Accuweather CEO Barry Myers, whose two brothers are still running the company, to head NOAA. For obvious reasons, Myers hasn’t been confirmed by the Senate in two years, but somehow Trump keeps betting on him.

In the video clip above, Oliver outlines all the reasons this decision is not only ill-advised, but downright dangerous.

Dig, Root, Grow

This year, we’re all on shaky ground, and the need for independent journalism has never been greater. A new administration is openly attacking free press — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Your support is more than a donation. It helps us dig deeper into hidden truths, root out corruption and misinformation, and grow an informed, resilient community.

Independent journalism like Truthdig doesn't just report the news — it helps cultivate a better future.

Your tax-deductible gift powers fearless reporting and uncompromising analysis. Together, we can protect democracy and expose the stories that must be told.

Dig. Root. Grow. Cultivate a better future.

Donate today.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG