In a significant backlash against the leadership of Lee Zeldin at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than 160 environmental and public health organisations are demanding his resignation or termination. They contend that Zeldin’s tenure has seen a stark departure from the agency’s primary mission to safeguard human health and the environment, leading to long-term consequences that could take decades to rectify.
A Brazen Betrayal
In an open letter released on March 24, 2026, the coalition of groups, including notable organisations like Public Citizen, the Sierra Club, and Physicians for Social Responsibility, accused Zeldin of “brazenly betraying” the EPA’s core objectives. They stated, “No EPA administrator in history—Democratic or Republican—has so brazenly betrayed the agency’s core mission.” Under his leadership, the EPA has dismantled a range of environmental protections that were designed to combat climate change, ensure clean air and water, and protect public health.
The groups argue that Zeldin has not only weakened critical regulations but has also significantly reduced funding and staffing at the agency, prioritising corporate interests over public welfare. “He slashed vital funding, gutted agency staff, and has rigged the system to put corporate polluters first, at the expense of our health,” the letter asserted, highlighting a disturbing trend that threatens to undermine years of environmental progress.
Criticism from All Angles
The letter, orchestrated by the Climate Action Campaign and Moms Clean Air Force, reflects broader discontent among environmental advocates and lawmakers. Zeldin has come under fire not just from advocacy groups, but also from current and former EPA employees. In June, a group of staff members signed a “Declaration of Dissent,” which vocally opposed his management style and the erosion of the agency’s scientific integrity. Reports indicated that some employees faced suspension or dismissal for their dissent, although the agency later determined that their actions did not breach ethical guidelines.
Brigit Hirsch, a spokesperson for the EPA, defended Zeldin’s leadership, claiming that the agency maintains a “zero-tolerance policy for career bureaucrats unlawfully undermining” the administration’s agenda. This statement has done little to quell the mounting criticism, particularly from Democratic lawmakers who have labelled Zeldin’s approach to environmental policy as reckless and damaging.
Support from Controversial Circles
Zeldin’s upcoming appearance as the keynote speaker at a climate-focused conference hosted by the Heartland Institute has further fuelled scrutiny. The right-wing organisation, known for its controversial stance on climate change, has received funding from fossil fuel giants like ExxonMobil and wealthy Republican donors. Critics argue that Zeldin’s association with such groups raises questions about the integrity of his commitment to addressing the climate crisis.
Adding to the controversy, Zeldin has reportedly engaged with supporters of the Make America Healthy Again movement, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which has previously called for his ousting. This connection has led to accusations that Zeldin is aligning himself with anti-science rhetoric and policies, further alienating him from the very mission of the EPA.
Why it Matters
The demand for Zeldin’s resignation serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggle for environmental justice and public health in the United States. As the climate crisis accelerates, the leadership of the EPA is paramount in shaping policies that protect both the environment and public welfare. The outcry for change reflects a growing consensus among citizens and advocates that effective governance must prioritise scientific integrity and public health over corporate interests. The outcome of this call to action could significantly influence the future trajectory of environmental policy in the U.S., making it imperative for stakeholders to remain vigilant and engaged.
