Trump Unveils Another Big Name For His Administration

President-elect Donald Trump appoints Lee Zeldin to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, signaling a shift in environmental policy.

At a Glance

Trump nominates former Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York as EPA Administrator.
Zeldin pledges to restore US energy dominance and revitalize the auto industry.
Appointment requires Senate confirmation, with Republicans holding majority.
Trump describes Zeldin as a “true fighter for America First policies.”
Environmental groups criticize the appointment, citing concerns over deregulation.

Trump Taps Lee Zeldin for EPA Leadership

In a move that underscores his commitment to reshaping environmental policy, President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former New York Representative Lee Zeldin to head the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This appointment, which requires Senate confirmation, is poised to significantly influence the direction of environmental regulations and energy policy in the United States.

Trump’s selection of Zeldin aligns with his broader strategy of appointing officials who support his “America First” agenda. The President-elect praised Zeldin’s qualifications, emphasizing his legal background and dedication to Trump’s policy vision.

“He will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet. He will set new standards on environmental review and maintenance, that will allow the United States to grow in a healthy and well-structured way.” – Donald Trump

Zeldin’s Vision for the EPA

Zeldin, who currently chairs the China policy initiative at the America First Policy Institute, has expressed his commitment to restoring U.S. energy dominance and revitalizing the auto industry. He plans to prioritize rolling back regulations that he claims hinder American businesses, while still maintaining environmental standards.

“It is an honor to join President Trump’s Cabinet as EPA Administrator.” – Lee Zeldin

The EPA, with a fiscal year 2024 budget of $9.1 billion and 15,130 employees, faces potential policy shifts under Zeldin’s leadership. Trump has indicated intentions to withdraw from the Paris climate accord and repeal the Inflation Reduction Act, signaling a significant departure from current environmental policies.

Reactions and Implications

The nomination has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters view Zeldin as a champion of economic growth and energy independence, while environmental groups have expressed concerns. Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous criticized the appointment, questioning Zeldin’s qualifications and commitment to environmental safeguards.

Zeldin’s appointment follows significant Supreme Court decisions affecting regulatory power, which may influence the scope of his authority at the EPA. With Republicans holding a majority in the Senate, the confirmation process is expected to favor Zeldin’s appointment.

Broader Cabinet Formation

Zeldin’s nomination is part of a broader effort by Trump to assemble a cabinet aligned with his policy goals. Other key appointments include Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff, Tom Homan as “border czar,” and Elise Stefanik as United Nations ambassador. These selections, along with expected announcements for roles such as national security adviser and deputy chief of staff for policy, provide insight into the potential direction of Trump’s second term.

As the cabinet takes shape, the Trump administration’s environmental and energy policies are likely to prioritize deregulation and economic growth, potentially reshaping the landscape of U.S. environmental protection and energy production in the coming years.