Trump's EPA Nominee Lee Zeldin Pledges America First Policies at Senate Hearing

Jan 16, 2025, 04:15 PM

Lee Zeldin, nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), faced a Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. Zeldin, a former New York congressman and a consultant to conservative organizations, including one linked to Elon Musk, is expected to implement Trump's America First energy policies if confirmed. During the hearing, Zeldin pledged to uphold the EPA's mission to protect human health and the environment, emphasizing the need to balance environmental protection with economic growth. He faced questions from senators on various issues, including climate change, with some Democrats pressing him on whether he would follow scientific evidence and protect the environment over industry interests. Zeldin acknowledged climate change but did not label it an existential threat, aligning with Trump's views on the issue. He also committed to reducing bureaucratic delays and promoting American energy dominance, while promising to visit California to assist with recovery efforts from recent wildfires.