Administrator Lee Zeldin of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed his goal of visiting all 50 states this year. Since his confirmation by the Senate on January 29, 2025, Zeldin has traveled across the country to engage with communities and gather insights to inform EPA policy decisions.
During his visits, Zeldin emphasized a commitment to addressing various environmental challenges. "From business owners to trade workers, elected officials to residents impacted by environmental challenges, I’ve been soliciting feedback on any and every way the Trump EPA can fix everything," he said. His travels included attending groundbreaking ceremonies for projects aimed at boosting energy production and economic growth, such as new data centers in West Memphis, Arkansas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Significant progress was made under his leadership, including a Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. and Mexico to address the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis in Southern California. The remediation timeline at the West Lake Landfill Superfund Site was reduced by two years. Additionally, changes were made to guidance on international air pollution and Diesel Exhaust Fuel (DEF), benefiting states like Utah and Arizona.
Zeldin also focused on emergency response efforts. He visited Ohio with Vice President JD Vance on the anniversary of the East Palestine train derailment and oversaw wildfire cleanup efforts in Los Angeles. In North Carolina, he ensured clean drinking water access post-Hurricane Helene and lifted an emergency order on Flint's drinking water in Michigan.
Reflecting on his nationwide tour, Zeldin expressed pride in meeting people committed to environmental stewardship: "It’s been an honor to get to every corner of this great nation." He pledged continued engagement with Americans to address environmental issues effectively.
In addition to domestic travel, Zeldin attended international events such as signing an MOU in Mexico City and participating in the G7 Energy and Environment Ministers’ Summit in Toronto.
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