Senate Approval of McCarthy Nomination Means Progress for Climate Change Agenda
The Senate voted to approve Gina McCarthy’s nomination to lead the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster.
WASHINGTON, DC (July 18, 2013) – Today, the Senate voted to approve Gina McCarthy’s nomination to lead the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster:
“After months of delay, finally the Senate has voted to approve a highly qualified nominee to lead the EPA. We applauded the appointment of Gina McCarthy to be the Administrator of the EPA, and are pleased to now have her strong voice officially at the helm of this vital agency.
“During her tenure at EPA, Gina McCarthy’s leadership on initiatives expanding renewable energy, protecting communities and addressing climate change in partnership with both sides of the aisle is unparalleled. We look forward to building on these successful efforts and to implementing President Obama’s plan that will begin the process of addressing climate change in a comprehensive way.
“It is disappointing to see that it has taken this long to act, especially for the leader of an agency that helps to provide vitally important environmental protections. While we are glad that Gina McCarthy’s nomination has been approved and there is agreement to move forward on other nominees, we still need real reform in the Senate. Senate rules must be updated so that nominees and the important issues of our day get the full and fair debate they deserve.
“We look forward to working with Gina McCarthy on expanding use of clean energy, creating jobs and making meaningful progress toward advancing the president’s climate change plan.”