Key Takeaways:
– Donald Trump seeks to nominate former Congressman Lee Zeldin as the head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
– Eight California clean air rules, including a ban on sales of new, gasoline-powered cars by 2035, are awaiting EPA approvals.
– Zeldin has previously expressed intentions to reverse a fracking ban but also vouched for the cleanest air and water.
– Observers have mixed reactions, challenging Zeldin’s environmental commitment and previous political stances.
Lee Zeldin: New Face at Climate’s Helm?
Donald Trump has announced his plan to nominate former New York Republican Congress member, Lee Zeldin, to helm the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This federal agency plays a pivotal role in California’s climate reduction objectives, and the selection of Zeldin, a staunch Trump supporter, is generating mixed opinions.
Zeldin’s EPA Mission
Supporters know Zeldin, 44, for his unwavering dedication to Trump’s mission and his tenure in Congress until 2023. Even after departing Congress, he remained a vocal figure opposing the certification of the 2020 election results.
Announcing Zeldin’s nomination for EPA’s lead, Trump has expressed his confidence that the former congressman will ensure judicious and speedy deregulatory decisions. The ex-President believes this decision will stimulate American businesses’ potential, while still upholding the nation’s impeccable environmental standards, inclusive of maintaining the world’s cleanest air and water.
The Incoming EPA Chief’s Target
Despite California being the only state in the nation with the authority to enact its vehicle emission standards, EPA’s stamp of approval is necessary to authorize these measures. At present, eight progressive clean air directives are awaiting EPA endorsement, one of which includes a proposal to prohibit the sale of gasoline-fueled new vehicles by 2035.
In his unsuccessful 2022 bid for New York Governor, Zeldin promised to overturn a fracking ban implemented by Democrats. He expresses determination towards reestablishing US energy supremacy, revitalizing the American auto industry, and spearheading the global AI sector, while preserving clean air and water access.
What do the Environmental Advocates Say?
The nomination has garnered mixed reactions from environmentalists. Brett Hartl, of the Center for Biological Diversity, expresses doubt over Zeldin’s commitment to environmental endeavors.
Manish Bapna, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), draws attention to Zeldin’s agenda to place the US as an AI leader. This progress could potentially increase electricity demand, given the hefty power consumption by data centers. Bound by this concern, the NRDC aims to ensure Zeldin’s commitment to clear air and water and public health protection continues without compromising EPA measures to reduce dirty power plants and cut climate pollution.
On the other hand, Laura Deehan, the state director of Environment California, highlights Zeldin’s past initiatives safeguarding the environment. She references his opposition to dump toxic wastes into Long Island Sound, his steps to shield Americans from “forever chemicals”, and his support of conservation funding via the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act.
David Watkins, director at the Union of Concerned Scientists’ climate and energy program, highlights the unique position Zeldin held during his Congress tenure, participating in the House bipartisan climate caucus. Watkins believes Zeldin could bring unique perspectives to the EPA, having firsthand experienced the devastating effects of extreme weather on his home area, Long Island, during Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
Although Watkins expresses cautious optimism, he also mentions Trump’s past criticisms of environmental rules aiming to protect California rivers and estuaries. He urges Republicans, including Zeldin and Trump, to uphold their commitment to states’ rights authority, particularly as they relate to California’s climate crisis mitigation efforts.