Former EPA Officials Call For Congressional Probe Into Agency

The transcript discusses a congressional probe into the Trump administration's conflict with California over environmental policies. Nearly 600 former EPA employees have requested an investigation into EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler's threats to withhold highway funding from California, accusing the state of violating clean water laws. The letter suggests Wheeler's actions may be retaliatory for California's lack of support for Trump's political agenda. The former employees argue that Wheeler's focus on California is partisan, given similar violations in other states. They also question the legitimacy of Wheeler's actions, citing the current administration's poor record on environmental enforcement. The EPA responded by pointing out California's severe air quality issues, claiming the matter is not political.

What was the EPA's response to the letter from the former employees?

In what context did the letter mention California's air quality?