Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, led a hearing on the nominations of David Fotouhi and Aaron Szabo for leadership roles at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The nominees are expected to play significant roles in aligning the EPA with its core mission of protecting air, land, and water while supporting economic development.

Chairman Capito emphasized their extensive experience in both public and private sectors. "Today we will receive testimony from David Fotouhi, the nominee to serve as the Environmental Protection Agency’s Deputy Administrator and from Aaron Szabo, to serve as the EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation," she stated. She expressed her anticipation for a productive discussion about how they would ensure President Trump's agenda aligns with the agency's mission.

David Fotouhi is currently a partner at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher and has previous experience within the EPA as Acting General Counsel. He has been recognized for his work in environmental law. "Mr. Fotouhi’s previous experience at the EPA provides him a wealth of perspective on the Agency’s critical role," Capito noted.

Aaron Szabo serves as a Senior Advisor to the EPA Administrator and has an extensive background working with various energy and environmental clients. His career includes service at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and other governmental bodies. Chairman Capito remarked on Mr. Szabo's potential role in adjusting regulations established during previous administrations: "Mr. Szabo’s nomination...will place him in a central role to roll back...extreme attack on reliable, baseload energy sources."

The chairman underscored that both nominees have substantial legal training and professional experience beneficial for their prospective roles. She concluded by expressing confidence in their abilities to steer EPA towards its foundational goals: "I am confident our witnesses’ legal training, previous government experience, and professional experience will serve them well."

The hearing marks another step toward reshaping EPA leadership under current administration priorities.