Lee Zeldin Defends EPA Nomination at Hearing

Lee Zeldin, President-elect Trump's nominee for the Environmental Protection Agency, stated in his Senate confirmation hearing that climate change is real and a threat, marking a departure from previous Trump administration stances. He highlighted that the EPA is authorized, but not obligated, to regulate carbon dioxide emissions, based on a 2007 Supreme Court decision. Zeldin indicated a willingness to align EPA regulations with recent conservative Supreme Court rulings, such as the 2023 Sackett decision that limited the Clean Water Act's scope. He emphasized the need to protect the environment without harming economic growth, reflecting Trump's mandate to roll back Biden-era climate regulations. Despite his lack of extensive environmental policymaking experience, Zeldin is expected to be confirmed. Zeldin's approach focuses on ensuring that EPA actions are durable and in line with congressional intent, while addressing economic concerns tied to environmental regulations.