William Ruckelshaus

William Ruckelshaus was an influential American lawyer and government official, best known for his role as the first Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a position he held twice, under Presidents Nixon and Reagan. He played a crucial role in shaping U.S. environmental policy, particularly in the implementation of the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act. Ruckelshaus is also remembered for his integrity in the Watergate scandal, where he famously chose to resign rather than follow orders to fire the special prosecutor investigating the affair. His legacy is marked by a commitment to both environmental protection and ethical governance.