Lee Zeldin, Trump’s EPA pick, promises to reduce regulations while ensuring environmental protection during his Senate hearing.
He pointed out that too many regulations are “suffocating the economy.” Zeldin, who’s 44, wants to work with both parties and the private sector to ensure clean air and water. He believes we can balance environmental protection with economic growth.
Zeldin shared his experience from his time in Congress, where he worked on bipartisan efforts to tackle pollution and clean up waterways. He mentioned how his Long Island district, surrounded by water, took environmental issues seriously.
He’s proud of his record, having supported significant legislation like the Great American Outdoors Act. When Trump chose him for the EPA role, he highlighted Zeldin’s strong legal background, which he believes will help make fair and quick decisions while maintaining high environmental standards.
Zeldin’s confirmation comes as Trump aims to boost domestic oil and gas production. Meanwhile, Biden’s administration has been pushing for policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
During the hearing, Chairwoman Shelley Moore Capito praised Zeldin’s work on environmental policies. She emphasized the need for the EPA to manage taxpayer dollars effectively.
However, some Democrats were skeptical. Senator Bernie Sanders pressed Zeldin on climate change, reminding him of Trump’s past comments. Zeldin acknowledged climate change is real but stressed the economic implications of certain policies.
As the hearing went on, Zeldin faced tough questions about his ties to the fossil fuel industry. He insisted that the EPA should pursue the cleanest and greenest energy solutions.
Zeldin, who left Congress in 2022 after an unsuccessful run for governor, is expected to be confirmed by the Senate. The hearing had its lighter moments too, like when Sanders joked about a phone call from the fossil fuel industry interrupting the session.
