Former Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) has been tapped by President-elect Trump to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), marking another key appointment for Trump’s Cabinet that includes a second New Yorker and a staunch ally.
In a statement, Trump expressed his approval, stating, “I am pleased to announce that the highly respected former Congressman from New York, Lee Zeldin, will be appointed to serve as the Administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency.”
Trump also highlighted Zeldin’s strong legal background and his dedication to “America First” policies, underscoring his commitment to reduce environmental regulations as part of the administration’s goals. Zeldin is expected to pursue a deregulatory agenda that promotes business growth while maintaining essential environmental standards, according to Trump’s comments.
Zeldin plans to prioritize regulatory rollbacks during first 100 days of Trump administration
In a post on social media platform X, Zeldin expressed his excitement about joining Trump’s Cabinet. He shared his vision to restore U.S. energy dominance, revitalize the auto industry, and establish the U.S. as a leader in AI, all while protecting the nation’s air and water.
Zeldin stated in an interview that during the first 100 days, the Trump administration would focus on rolling back business regulations. While specific targets were not mentioned, he noted that Trump had identified multiple priorities for reform.
Though Zeldin has previously downplayed the severity of climate change, he has participated in the Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus. However, his environmental record is not strong, with a lifetime score of just 14 percent from the League of Conservation Voters, which tracks pro-environment votes.
A former congressman from 2015 to 2023, Zeldin was a key defender of Trump during the first impeachment in 2019. After choosing not to seek reelection in 2022, he ran for New York governor but lost by six percentage points, despite performing better than previous Republican candidates in the state.
Zeldin joins Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) as one of two New Yorkers in Trump’s Cabinet. Stefanik is slated to become the U.S. representative to the United Nations, with both appointments pending Senate confirmation.
Trump’s campaign praised Zeldin’s political influence, noting his success in helping Republicans gain ground in suburban New York districts, contributing to the party’s House majority. Despite these accomplishments, Zeldin’s appointment has been met with criticism from environmental advocates.
The Sierra Club, in particular, voiced strong opposition, calling Zeldin “unqualified” and accusing him of undermining efforts to safeguard public health and the environment. Ben Jealous, the group’s executive director, condemned the selection, accusing Trump of prioritizing corporate interests over environmental protection.
