In a strong statement of fiscal responsibility, former New York State Senator and newly appointed EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has pledged to be a diligent steward of taxpayer dollars, emphasizing a “zero tolerance” policy for waste and abuse. This announcement follows revelations of serious financial mismanagement within the agency during the previous administration. Two months ago, a troubling video surfaced, featuring a Biden-era EPA official discussing the irresponsible allocation of billions of taxpayer dollars.
Two months ago, a disturbing video surfaced, featuring a Biden-era EPA appointee discussing the reckless distribution of billions of taxpayer dollars. The official likened their actions to “tossing gold bars off the Titanic,” a clear acknowledgment that funds were being hastily allocated with little oversight before the transition of power. Following this revelation, Zeldin committed to Congress and the American public that a full accounting of these funds would be conducted. Upon taking office, his team quickly launched an investigation into the whereabouts of these billions in taxpayer money.
Shockingly, the probe revealed that approximately $20 billion had been held at an external financial institution. According to Zeldon, it is an unprecedented maneuver in EPA history. This financial setup was intended to deploy the money quickly, thereby minimizing oversight and accountability. Even more alarming, $2 billion of this amount was allocated to just eight entities, giving them substantial discretion in disbursing the funds with limited transparency. The largest share—nearly $7 billion—was directed to a single entity, the Climate United Fund. This revelation raised urgent questions about how these organizations determined fund allocation, the amount of money distributed to date and to whom, and whether any former Biden EPA officials are currently employed by these entities.
While the investigation found no wrongdoing by the financial institution managing the funds, Zeldin announced immediate action to terminate the financial agent agreement. Furthermore, he demanded that the institution return all funds entrusted to it by the Biden administration. In line with the agency’s commitment to accountability, every penny that has left the EPA’s control will undergo review. The matter will also be sent to the Inspector General’s Office and the Department of Justice for additional scrutiny.
Zeldin clarified that the era of irresponsibly funneling cash to far-left activist groups under the guise of environmental justice and climate equity is over. The American people deserve a government that prioritizes transparency and responsible fiscal management. With a renewed focus on oversight, the EPA will ensure that taxpayer dollars serve their intended purpose—protecting the environment and promoting responsible resource stewardship. As Zeldin affirmed, the agency will now work to reclaim control over these funds and implement stronger financial safeguards.
