I see, and have posted, several items from the State Department and from the Executive Order that directly contradicts that.
I see conflicting statements from the same sources. But the language of the executive order seems clear.
I have to wonder on this pipeline, at this time, both are trying to use the other as blame when the approval goes through.
They don't contradict what I posted. The State Department has been designated the lead agency to receive applications for Presidential permits and to coordinate review by the national security agencies.
I provided you with State Department report to Congress on the Keystone pipeline that clearly indicates that the State Department provides recommendations, but the President makes the determination.
The courts have determined that the President has the right to make these decisions stemming from his “inherent Constitutional authority to conduct foreign policy,” as opposed to statutory authority granted to the President by Congress. "The President could delegate his permitting authority to the U.S. Department of State, but delegation did not transform the permit’s issuance into an agency action reviewable under the APA."
These cross-border permits are considered as part of national security, which means that the President as CIC can make such decisions rather than Congress. Do you dispute that the President makes the final determination? If not, then what is his role?
have to wonder on this pipeline, at this time, both are trying to use the other as blame when the approval goes through.
I assume by "both" you mean the State Department and the WH. I have a profound disagreement with your statement. The WH and the State Department are working together to execute whatever the President wants. Again, the State Department is the puppet and the President the puppeteer. The puppet doesn't do anything the puppeteer doesn't want it to do.