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Lee Zeldin Confirmed as EPA Administrator Amid Controversy
On Wednesday, the Senate confirmed Lee Zeldin, a former representative from New York, as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in a closely observed vote of 56-42. Zeldin’s confirmation saw support from some Democrats, including Mark Kelly, John Fetterman, and Ruben Gallego, who crossed party lines to back his nomination.
Though Zeldin’s selection came as a surprise, particularly given his strong focus on international affairs during his time in Congress, he has been a steadfast ally of former President Donald Trump. His support for Trump was especially notable during the impeachment proceedings of 2019, where he played an active role in defending the then-president.
During the confirmation hearings, Senate Democrats took the opportunity to challenge Zeldin on his stance regarding climate change, a topic often dismissed by Trump as a hoax. They also sought clarity on opinion articles he authored, which reportedly criticized various climate initiatives. This scrutiny underlined ongoing concerns about the future direction of the EPA under Zeldin’s leadership.
Despite the contentious discussions, Zeldin’s confirmation was not anticipated to be as contentious as those of other Trump nominees, such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who faced intense questioning from Democrats facing similar concerns.
In statements during his confirmation, Zeldin expressed his recognition of climate change but attempted to contextualize Trump’s remarks about it being a hoax. “As far as President Trump goes, the context that I have heard him speak about it was with a criticism of policies that have been enacted because of climate change,” Zeldin explained. He noted Trump’s concerns were primarily about the economic repercussions of particular climate policies.
In a post on X following his confirmation, Zeldin expressed gratitude towards Trump and the senators who supported him, exclaiming, “CONFIRMED! Thank You to the 56 Senators for your vote and confidence. Grateful to President @realDonaldTrump for having the faith in me to be part of his Cabinet as @EPA Administrator.” He concluded with a nod to Trump’s campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again!”
Opponents of Zeldin’s nomination, particularly from the Democratic side, voiced strong criticisms, particularly surrounding climate change issues. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse articulated these concerns, stating, “We need an EPA administrator who will take climate change seriously, treat the science honestly, and stand up where necessary to the political pressure that will be coming from the White House.” He doubted Zeldin’s capacity to resist the influence of fossil fuel interests that had played a role in securing his position.
Supporters from the Republican side hailed Zeldin’s appointment as an opportunity to push forward Trump’s agenda aimed at rolling back regulations at the EPA. Senator Kevin Cramer remarked, “Lee is primed and ready to slash the mountains of backwards regulations at the EPA to restore primacy of states and common sense. I look forward to working with him as he brings some sanity back to the EPA and makes the bureaucracy work for the people it purportedly serves.”
— Updated at 5:16 p.m. EST
Source
thehill.com