Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who chairs the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, voted in favor of advancing Lee Zeldin's nomination as the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The committee approved Zeldin's nomination with an 11-8 bipartisan vote, moving it to the full Senate for further consideration.

In her opening statement, Chairman Capito praised Congressman Zeldin's plans for the EPA and his collaborative approach. She highlighted his commitment to transparency and his qualifications for the role. "Congressman Zeldin, I think, was an excellent witness," she stated.

Capito emphasized Zeldin's experience as a former Congressman from New York’s 1st Congressional District and his understanding of legislative processes. She noted his ability to build consensus due to his background representing a politically diverse district.

She also mentioned Zeldin's military service and legal expertise as assets that would aid him in implementing the President’s agenda at the EPA. Capito expressed satisfaction with Zeldin's intention to align EPA operations with congressional laws, focusing on core responsibilities like protecting health and natural resources.

Capito addressed past criticisms of the EPA, stating that its policies have significantly impacted both the environment and economy over 25 years. She advocated for policies that balance environmental improvement with economic growth without burdening American families financially.

She urged colleagues to support Zeldin’s nomination to refocus EPA efforts on essential environmental protections while fostering community development across America.