Mike Stoker appointed to new Trump administration post

CARPINTERIA, Calif. - Carpinteria lawyer Mike Stoker was just appointed to a new post in the Trump administration.

He said he is now a U.S. Representative on the Western Interstate Nuclear Energy Board and the Western Interstate Energy Board.

He received a letter dated March 27, signed by President Donald Trump, making it official.

In February, the former Santa Barbara County Supervisor was let go from his job with the Environmental Protection Agency.

He blamed his bipartisan efforts. He now believes President Trump had nothing to do with his release.

While sheltering in place with his wife Debi Helm-Stoker, he commented on his appointment.

"I am honored, I am humbled, I was given the opportunity for 2 years to be the southwest administrator for the EPA, being appointed by the President, and I have to say those were probably the 2 best professional years of my life with the career men and women at region 9. In 2 years we accomplished so many things."

Stoker wanted more flexibility and considered joining a national law firm.

He talked with the White House staff and the boards seemed like a good fit.

"The president wanted a strong individual on these boards to make sure the administration's energy policies are pursued. So, I am looking forward to this board, I have already been in some webinars."

He said he is moving from environment to energy.

"There is a huge crossover there, as we all know, with those two subject matters, so one chapter closed, and another chapter now is opening, stay tuned, and more importantly in these extraordinary times stay safe."