Rep. Lee Zeldin alleges the EPA is 'tossing gold bars off the Titanic' by rapidly distributing billions of dollars before Biden takes office. Zeldin cites a video of an EPA appointee expressing concern about the speed of the funding distribution.
Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY) recently accused the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) of recklessly distributing billions of dollars before President Biden's inauguration, likening the actions to 'tossing gold bars off the Titanic.' Zeldin made these comments during his Senate confirmation hearing for the position of EPA administrator.
He cited a video showing a political appointee at the EPA expressing concern about rapidly distributing funds before the incoming administration could potentially halt them. The video captured the appointee saying, 'Now we're trying to get the money out as fast as possible before they come in and stop it all,' adding, 'It truly feels like we're on the Titanic and we're throwing like gold bars off the edge.' The EPA defended its actions, stating that it remains committed to a timeline set years ago for awarding funds from President Biden's Investing In America Agenda. They emphasized that these funds benefit millions of Americans, protect communities from pollution, and drive economic growth. The EPA spokesperson assured that the agency manages all appropriated dollars with transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness to achieve meaningful results for the public. However, the spokesperson didn't clarify if the employee featured in the video faced disciplinary action or if they are still employed by the EPA. Zeldin, a former four-term congressman from New York and the 2022 Republican gubernatorial candidate, pledged to be a 'good steward' of the environment despite the controversy surrounding his nomination. He expressed excitement about partnering with the EPA team nationwide to exceptionally serve the American public and emphasized his commitment to fostering a collaborative culture within the agency. Zeldin's nomination has faced criticism due to his past stance on environmental issues and his lack of direct experience in environmental policy.
EPA Environmental Protection Agency Lee Zeldin Biden Administration Political Appointee Funding Distribution Senate Confirmation Hearing
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