Lee Zeldin has begun meeting with senators to smooth his path for confirmation as President-elect Donald Trump’s EPA administrator.
On Monday, the former New York Republican representative met with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who will soon chair the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. Securing Capito’s support will be key for Zeldin.
Capito said on social media she had “an excellent meeting” with Zeldin to talk about his vision for the agency.
“Congressman Zeldin understands the need to roll back regulatory overreach, unleash American energy, and allow Americans to build again — all while protecting public health and the environment,” Capito wrote. “His skillset is well suited to implement the agenda of President Trump.”
She added, “I look forward to quickly considering his nomination in” the committee.
Zeldin also posted on X, saying, “Just wrapped up a great meeting on the Hill with soon-to-be Senate EPW Chair @SenCapito.”
He continued, “Looking forward to collaborating with her to make the EPA work best for the American people!”
This was Zeldin’s first senator meeting as part of his confirmation process, according to a spokesperson for EPW Republicans. Zeldin is expected to win approval from the Republican-controlled Senate to head up EPA early next year.
He has not attracted the same level of scrutiny as Trump’s more controversial Cabinet choices, including former Fox News host Pete Hegseth for Defense.