EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt describes his philosophy as “back to basics." Although Pruitt’s words suggest a renewed focus on the fundamentals of environmental protection, his actions tell a different story. Instead of doubling down on traditional programs safeguarding air, water, and land, Pruitt’s tenure has been defined by an obsessive focus on undoing the legacy of Barack Obama’s EPA. This deeply destructive approach reflects skepticism and suspicion of the value of environmental regulation, coupled with cynicism about the scientific, legal, and economic tools that have traditionally been the underpinnings of EPA’s programs. Thus, Pruitt is not preserving the “basics” of our environmental protection system, but deconstructing them.