Emmanuel OchayiPresident-elect Donald Trump has named former New York congressman Lee Zeldin as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Trump described Zeldin as a leader who will “unleash the power of American business” while maintaining “the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.”
Zeldin, 44, responded to the appointment via the social media platform X, calling it an “honor” and pledging to “restore US energy dominance, revitalize the auto industry, and position the US as a global leader in AI,” all while ensuring access to clean air and water.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhat Is Lee Zeldin’s Stance on Environmental Protection?
Lee Zeldin’s track record on environmental protection has drawn criticism from environmental advocates. During his time in Congress, Zeldin was known for opposing several environmental regulations. Barry Rabe, a professor of environmental and public policy at the University of Michigan, said Zeldin’s approach was “very critical and hostile” to EPA’s regulatory authority.
If Zeldin’s past actions are an indicator, his tenure at the EPA may result in challenges to many of the clean energy initiatives put in place by President Joe Biden’s administration. This could affect key regulations under the Clean Air Act, which aims to reduce and control air pollution. Policies related to electric vehicles, cleaner energy, and methane regulations for oil and gas are likely to be affected.
Zeldin’s voting record reflects his stance on environmental issues. He voted for an amendment to cut the EPA’s budget, supported withdrawing from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and opposed conservation funding. However, he voted to regulate “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in 2021.
Why Did Trump Pick Lee Zeldin?
Trump’s decision to appoint Lee Zeldin has raised questions about the motivations behind the choice. Barry Rabe suggests that Trump’s picks are often based on loyalty, confrontational style, and media presence. “Zeldin is very articulate and decisive,” said Rabe. “He’s also someone who’s comfortable being on TV and pushing back against critics.”
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In a recent appearance on Fox News, Zeldin signaled his plans for the EPA, promising to roll back regulations that, in his view, hurt American businesses. “Day one and the first 100 days, we have the opportunity to roll back regulations that are forcing businesses to struggle,” he stated.
Zeldin’s pro-business stance aligns with Trump’s broader plan to bypass Senate checks and install Cabinet members through recess appointments. This move allows a president to appoint officials without Senate approval if the Senate is not in session. Trump’s decision has raised concerns about executive overreach.
What Changes Could Zeldin Bring to the EPA?
As head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Zeldin will have significant influence over environmental policies. However, there are limits to his authority. While he may attempt to weaken or repeal regulations, he cannot reverse legislation passed by Congress. For instance, major infrastructure funding for electric vehicle charging stations and green energy incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act cannot be undone by executive action alone.
However, with Republicans controlling both the House of Representatives and the Senate, there’s a possibility that some of Biden’s climate policies could be repealed. Experts warn that Zeldin could freeze EPA funds or redirect them away from climate protection. Rabe noted that Zeldin’s leadership could result in “a frontal assault on the agency, trying to drive people out.”
One of Trump’s most controversial proposals is to reinstate “Schedule F,” a 2020 executive order that would reclassify certain federal jobs as political positions. This would give Trump’s administration the power to fire employees who were previously considered nonpartisan. If this policy is reintroduced, it could affect the employment status of thousands of EPA staff.
How Have Environmental Groups Responded to Zeldin’s Appointment?
Environmental advocacy groups and unions representing EPA workers have voiced strong opposition to Lee Zeldin’s appointment. Nicole Cantello, president of AFGE Local 704, a union for over 1,000 EPA employees, stated, “During the last Trump administration, we witnessed massive damage to the EPA’s work.” She accused the previous administration of downplaying climate science, reducing staff, and weakening enforcement against polluters.
Ben Jealous, executive director of the Sierra Club, called Zeldin “unqualified” and warned that his leadership would benefit corporate polluters. “Our lives, our livelihoods, and our collective future cannot afford Lee Zeldin — or anyone who seeks to carry out a mission antithetical to the EPA’s mission,” Jealous stated.
Advocates fear that Zeldin’s approach will lead to reduced enforcement of pollution laws and less oversight of corporations. They also worry about potential changes to clean water and air protections, which were weakened under Trump’s first term.
With Zeldin’s appointment, the future of the EPA’s role in addressing climate change and protecting the environment remains uncertain. Many observers see this as a test of how much executive power Trump’s administration will wield during his presidency.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
