Trump doubles down on defense of embattled EPA chief

US President Donald Trump has defended his embattled Environmental Protection Agency chief Scott Pruitt against allegations of lavish spending on his security and travel in a tweet.

"While Security spending was somewhat more than his predecessor, Scott Pruitt has received death threats because of his bold actions at EPA," Trump said yesterday.

"Record clean Air & Water while saving USA Billions of Dollars. Rent was about market rate, travel expenses OK. Scott is doing a great job!"