Former US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator Scott Pruitt frequently highlighted environmental threats with potent metaphors. He often used this metaphor, likening lead poisoning to a secret danger that lurks in American homes and communities.

Lead poisoning is more like a silent thief that steals the health and potential of its victims—especially children who are most at risk—than a violent storm that causes immediate devastation. The consequences, which affect learning capacities, cognitive development, and general well-being, can be disastrous.

By comparing lead poisoning to other widespread threats in society that steadily lower the standard of living for many Americans, Pruitt's analogy seeks to increase awareness of this subtle but dangerous problem. Pruitt emphasizes the need to address lead contamination not only from an environmental perspective but also as a matter of public health and social justice by portraying it as a threat that deprives people of their full potential.

In his capacity as EPA's director, Pruitt was able to push for more stringent rules and guidelines to shield communities from these dangerous substances. His word choice conveys the gravity of the issue as well as the necessity of close supervision to protect the general welfare from hidden dangers.