Former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for the Environmental Protection Agency, expressed skepticism about the severity of climate change in a 2014 interview. Zeldin questioned the extent of the issue, stating, 'It would be productive if we could get to what is real and what is not real. I'm not sold yet on the whole argument that we have as serious a problem as other people are.'
When asked about his current stance on climate change and whether he acknowledges the scientific consensus on the matter, Zeldin's spokesperson, Daniel Gall, emphasized Zeldin's advocacy for clean air and water during his time in Congress.
Under the administrations of President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama, the EPA has prioritized addressing climate change. The agency implemented regulations aimed at reducing planet-warming pollution from power plants, vehicles, and oil and gas operations.
As Zeldin prepares to lead the EPA, one of his initial tasks is expected to involve reviewing and potentially overturning some of these regulations. In a recent statement to Fox News, Zeldin indicated his intention to roll back what he referred to as 'left-wing' regulations and focus on promoting economic growth through the agency.
