Lee Zeldin, the newly appointed administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has taken decisive action by canceling a controversial $50 million environmental justice grant linked to the Climate Justice Alliance. This grant was part of the Biden administration’s efforts to address climate issues but has faced criticism due to the organization’s political stance, which includes claims that "climate justice travels through a Free Palestine." Zeldin announced the cancellation during an appearance on "The Story with Martha MacCallum," emphasizing that he believes taxpayer money should not support what he described as a left-wing advocacy group.
Zeldin, who was sworn in as EPA administrator at the end of January, expressed his commitment to eliminating waste and fraud within the agency. He stated, "Just earlier today, I canceled a $50 million grant to an organization called the Climate Justice Alliance. I think that the American taxpayer wouldn’t want $50 million going to this left-wing advocacy group. It’s canceled." His remarks highlight a broader agenda to ensure that government funds are allocated effectively and transparently.
The cancellation of the grant comes amid Zeldin’s broader focus on identifying and recovering taxpayer money that he claims was wasted during the Biden administration. He has publicly stated that his team has uncovered approximately $20 billion in misallocated funds, calling attention to a video that circulated recently featuring a Biden appointee discussing the rush to distribute funds before the transition of power to President Trump. Zeldin referred to this as "tossing gold bars off the Titanic," suggesting a disregard for responsible fiscal management.
Additionally, Zeldin criticized a $160 million payment made to a Canadian electric bus manufacturer under the previous administration, noting that the company has since declared bankruptcy and failed to deliver $95 million worth of school buses to 55 school districts. He emphasized that it is the American taxpayer who ultimately bears the consequences of such mismanagement.
In his efforts to promote efficiency and accountability within the EPA, Zeldin’s actions align with the initiatives of the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. The DOGE aims to root out waste and improve efficiency across federal agencies. HUD Secretary Scott Turner recently announced the creation of a task force under DOGE to identify and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending.
As Zeldin continues to implement changes at the EPA, he faces the challenge of balancing environmental priorities with fiscal responsibility. His approach marks a significant shift in the agency’s direction, reflecting a broader Republican strategy to scrutinize and reform government spending practices.