The elected president of the United States, Donald Trump, has selected former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This decision puts Zeldin at the forefront of Trump’s plans to promote energy production and reverse environmental regulations. Zeldin would become the head of an agency whose regulations cover sectors ranging from oil refineries to family farms, impacting the entire U.S. economy.
If confirmed, Zeldin would be responsible for leading the repeal of regulations related to pollution from power plants. The EPA has been tasked with supporting Trump’s promises to accelerate the construction of gas-fired power plants and reduce the restrictions imposed during the Biden administration to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
Zeldin, who previously held a position in Congress and ran for governor of New York in 2022, has been noted for his support of the automotive industry and his interest in strengthening the position of the United States as a leader in artificial intelligence. However, his track record on environmental issues is mixed, having been criticized for his limited support for environmental-related legislation during his time in Congress.
The possible appointment of Lee Zeldin as head of the EPA has sparked controversy, with environmental activists and critics questioning his suitability for the role. Meanwhile, Trump has expressed his intention for the EPA to change the pollution standards established during the Biden administration and has suggested the possibility of relocating the agency's headquarters outside of Washington.
