President Trump recently questioned the basis for long-standing climate regulations, specifically the 2009 endangerment finding. This finding has been a key justification for government actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Trump argued that the regulations stemming from this finding have placed unnecessary burdens on American businesses and consumers. He emphasized the importance of affordable energy and a strong economy, suggesting that the climate regulations could hinder economic growth.
Regarding wind energy, Trump said it’s not the most cost-effective source. He highlighted that natural gas and nuclear energy offer reliable power at competitive prices, while wind energy often requires subsidies and can be intermittent.
Trump also raised concerns about the economic impact of climate policies. He stated the previous administration’s approach was a “scam” that harmed the country.
Administrator Zeldin echoed these sentiments, stating that the prior administration used the endangerment finding to push for policies like electric vehicle mandates. She said that this pushed an agenda that may not have been in the best interest of American consumers or the economy. She pointed out that it limited consumer choices and potentially increased costs. While the previous administration set goals for electric vehicle adoption, Zeldin says those goals created pressure and weren’t reflective of market demands.
Trump’s administration has consistently prioritized energy independence and economic prosperity, arguing that a strong economy is essential for addressing environmental challenges. He believes that innovation and technological advancements, rather than restrictive regulations, are the best way to achieve a cleaner environment without sacrificing jobs or economic growth.
