Overview

On the heels of recent elections that gave Republicans a majority in the Senate, Lee Zeldin's nomination as the head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is raising significant concerns about the future of environmental policy in the United States. Zeldin, a 44-year-old attorney and former Army lieutenant, has had a political career marked by his lack of emphasis on environmental issues, which is set to dramatically contrast with the policies of current administrator Michael Regan.

Political Background

Zeldin's trajectory in politics began in the New York State Senate in 2011, continuing until 2014 when he was elected to represent New York’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout this tenure, he did not participate in any subcommittees directly handling environmental matters. His voting record reflects a consistent opposition to progressive environmental policies, leading to a disappointing lifetime score of just 14 percent from the League of Conservation Voters.

Key Voting Records

In 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic, Zeldin voted against an amendment aimed at preventing the finalization of a Trump-era soot standard that would worsen air quality in communities of color—areas already suffering due to disproportionate pollution. Moreover, his 2021 vote against a bill mandating the disclosure of climate-related risks from public companies further emphasizes his stance against comprehensive climate action.

Interestingly, despite these setbacks, Zeldin did support a bill requiring the EPA to establish drinking water standards for PFAS and PFOA chemicals, notoriously dubbed “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment and their connection to severe health issues such as cancer. Investigative reports revealed alarming levels of these chemicals in Long Island's drinking water, indicating an urgent public health crisis.

Comparison with Michael Regan

Zeldin's potential leadership at the EPA would signify a notable shift from Michael Regan, who has led the agency's recent efforts toward environmental justice and stricter regulations to mitigate pollution. Regan, with his background in environmental science and significant roles within the EPA, has championed initiatives that prioritize community health and environmental protections. In contrast, Zeldin's appointment would likely steer the EPA toward a more industry-friendly approach, reminiscent of the prior Trump administration's strategy focused on deregulation and bolstering fossil fuel production.

Future of the EPA Under Zeldin

If Zeldin is confirmed, he will wield considerable authority over crucial aspects of the EPA’s direction, including the annual budget and the enforcement of existing environmental laws. His orientation could enable less stringent oversight and potentially hand more authority to state agencies more aligned with industry interests. Notably, states like Louisiana and Texas have faced criticism for their lax regulation practices, suggesting that a Zeldin-led EPA may follow suit.

In sum, the nomination of Lee Zeldin stands to redefine the EPA's role in safeguarding the environment and public health, further igniting a national conversation about climate action and regulatory policies.

Original Source from Wired