President Barack Obama March 6 nominated Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation Gina McCarthy for the top post at EPA. Following the President’s mentions of climate change in his second inaugural and recent State of the Union addresses, the nomination of Gina McCarthy as EPA administrator is seen by environmental advocates as another indication that the president is serious about prioritizing scientific solutions to environmental, public health and climate challenges.
Gina McCarthy has served in federal and state government for over 25 years, including a stint as Governor Mitt Romney’s energy and climate advisor in Massachusetts. McCarthy has worked closely with environmental advocates and with industry leaders and has earned the trust of both sides.
Here is what some industry leaders and environmental advocates have to say about her:
Jodi Rell, former Republican governor of Connecticut: “Her leadership on climate issues is nationally respected, so it comes as no surprise that the Obama administration would reach out to Commissioner McCarthy, a dedicated public servant with tremendous talent and passion.”
Gloria Berquist, vice president of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers: “She’s a pragmatic policymaker. She has aspirational environmental goals, but she accepts real-world economics.”
Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council: “Gina McCarthy knows what it means to protect our air, water, land and health and stand up to the growing threats we’re seeing from climate change. She’s a good listener, a straight shooter and someone who has what it takes to build consensus and find solutions. We can count on her to protect our environment and our health. And she can count on our support as she works to get the job done on behalf of Americans everywhere.”
John McManus, American Electric Power’s vice president of environmental services: “My sense is that Gina is listening, has an open mind, she wants to hear the concerns of the regulated sector.”
For more comments, please see Smith's full article at EHS Today.
