During an EPA hearing, Zeldin was questioned by Democrats about his stance on climate change and Trump's carbon emissions policy.

On Thursday, Lee Zeldin, the former New York Congressman, faced a confirmation hearing to head the Environmental Protection Agency, where he was questioned by Democrats about his stance on climate change.

Zeldin was questioned by Senate Environment and Public Works Committee ranking member Sheldon Whitehouse about the effects of carbon dioxide and pollutants on the atmosphere.

"Is carbon dioxide a pollutant?" the Rhode Island Democrat asked.

Zeldin stated that while carbon dioxide emissions from individuals should not be the primary focus, the EPA should prioritize reducing carbon dioxide output in larger masses.

The Whitehouse created a topographic map of Rhode Island, highlighting areas at risk of being submerged due to climate change.

He stated that Zeldin is likely aware of the issue with sea levels because his former congressional district is situated diagonally across Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean from Westerly.

In 2024, the hottest year on record, Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont who aligns with Democrats, informed Rep. Lee Zeldin of this fact.

Sanders, a self-described democratic socialist, pointed out that the past decade has been the hottest on record and mentioned "unprecedented wildfires in the West Coast and Canada as well as "unprecedented flooding in China" and drought in South America and Africa.

Trump has repeatedly referred to climate change as a "hoax."

"Currently in L.A., we are witnessing an apocalyptic scene, while Montpelier experienced flooding recently in a manner that has not been previously observed."

Zeldin was pressed to reveal whether he considers climate change an existential threat.

In contrast to Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, who praised Zeldin for his measured belief in climate change, Zeldin's stance on the issue was criticized.

He stated that there is much that unites us in terms of environmental concerns.

Around that time, a cell phone near Zeldin rang loudly.

"That was the fossil fuel industry," Sanders quipped.

In a 2016 congressional debate, Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York stated that it is the U.S.' responsibility to decrease dependence on fossil fuels. Later, Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts challenged Zeldin on these remarks during a Green New Deal discussion.

Zeldin responded, "I support all of the above energy," before Markey interrupted.

In an ideal world, we would always pursue the cleanest and greenest energy sources possible, according to Zeldin. However, Markey believes that present-day Zeldin does not share the same view as 2016 Zeldin.

Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., brought up constituents ravaged by wildfires.

Zeldin asked to visit California to bring assistance, and Schiff accepted.

Whether disaster strikes a red state or a blue state, your response will not be affected, Schiff later inquired.

Zeldin assured him that would not be the case.

In his initial statement at the hearing, Zeldin vowed to adhere to the EPA's fundamental objective, which he characterized as safeguarding human well-being and the environment.

We must protect our environment and economy by harnessing American innovation and conservation.

Zeldin stated that the American people require leaders who can find common ground to address the pressing issues we face. He emphasized that he wants his daughters, as well as every child in the country, to grow up in a world with clean air, clean water, and limitless opportunities.

Zeldin promised to create a collaborative work environment at the agency, where he would support career staff who are committed to the mission. He strongly believes that it is our moral duty to protect the environment for future generations.

Despite earning a 14% lifetime environmental voting score from the League of Conservation Voters, Zeldin fought against initiatives to enhance air and water quality in and around New York while in office.

He resisted attempts to dispose of dredge waste in Long Island Sound, increased the budget for the EPA's Long Island Sound Program threefold.

In a previous statement, Trump asserted that Zeldin would make fair deregulation decisions and implement them in a manner that would empower American businesses while maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.