We the undersigned, respectfully endorse the following letter written by The Daily Herald Editorial Board:

Dear Mr. Chaffetz —

As this nation marks the start of a new Congress and the inauguration of a new president, we wanted to write to you regarding your chairmanship of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. We’re concerned about some of your recent actions and their potential impact on your ability to ensure that the government’s work for the American people is being done efficiently, economically and legally....

While some people would expect someone like you with an “R” by his name to give a break to other people with an “R” by their names, we certainly hope that isn’t the case. After all, regardless of party, many people went to the polls last November and voted for less cronyism and no more “politics as usual.” We find it hard to accomplish these goals unless there is accountability.

Unfortunately, many recent statements and actions from you and other Utah Republicans do not seem to foster accountability. We’re baffled by the initial vote by the Utah Congressional delegation to join other House Republicans in gutting the independent Office of Congressional Ethics. Although Republicans later reversed course, the action seemed to be a slap in the face to those who wanted to “drain the swamp.”

Additionally, we are worried your actions fall short of the oversight committee’s pledge on its website to “work proactively to investigate and expose waste, fraud, and abuse."....

The government needs a lot of watchdogs, which is also why we question your committee’s decision to investigate the Office of Government Ethics after its director, Walter Shaub Jr., made critical statements about how Trump could best avoid possible conflicts of interest (which is one of the primary purposes of Shaub’s office). While it’s important to ensure that Shaub and the office remain nonpartisan, it appears odd to go after those tasked with helping to keep others accountable.

Appearances aside, we hope you will keep and project a willingness about investigating all aspects of governance, including the incoming administration. We ask that you hold to the values that your constituents cherish and that you act as a statesman to put nation above party. After all, the committee calls for oversight of all government — not just the elements that are convenient to one political party.

A former president is well known for using the Russian proverb “Trust, but verify.” In order for Americans and your constituents to trust those running the government, we need you and others in oversight to be ever vigilant and verify that all of our public servants remain dedicated to serving the people.

Sincerely,