US Senate confirms Gina McCarthy as EPA chief in 59-40 vote
In Washington, the US Senate voted 59-40 to confirm Gina McCarthy as head of the Environmental Protection Agency, after the Senate voted 69-31 earlier in the day to end debate on the nomination. The vote came after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid threatened to pass legislation aimed at limiting Senate delaying tactics after four key Obama Administration appointments had been held up for months by Senate Republicans.
In hailing the confirmation, National Biodiesel Board vice president of federal affairs Anne Steckel commented: “Gina McCarthy is a strong, dynamic leader who knows the intersection of environment and energy issues as well as anyone in the nation. She understands that we must move beyond fossil fuels to meet our objectives on these issues and has demonstrated a practical, balanced approach for doing so, including strong support for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). We are thrilled to see her confirmed and believe she will provide outstanding leadership at the EPA.”
Growth Energy CEO Tom Buis added: ““Ms. McCarthy is extremely qualified and is known for her willingness to always examine issues with a fair and open-minded approach.”
“Congratulations to Administrator McCarthy” noted Adam Monroe, Americas Regional President for Novozymes, “we’re glad the Senate acted on her nomination and looking forward to getting to work,”
In meeting after meeting over the years, we have always found Gina McCarthy to be approachable and open to dialogue,” said RFA chief Bob Dinneen. “There is no question that she is a thoughtful, solution-oriented professional who will handle the tough job ahead of her with grace.”
Category: Policy
