As a proud New Yorker, I’ve watched Lee Zeldin’s political career closely. He started in Suffolk County and became a respected congressman and gubernatorial candidate. His journey shows the American dream and the power of hard work1.
In 2011, Zeldin was elected to the New York State Senate, representing the 3rd Senate district1. He won with 57% of the vote, showing his appeal and policy strength1. He was re-elected in 2012, defeating Democrat Francis Genco with 56% of the vote1.
In 2014, Zeldin won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York’s 1st congressional district1. He beat incumbent Tim Bishop with 54% of the vote, a big step in his career1. He was re-elected in 2016 and 2018, showing his strength in politics1.
In 2020, Zeldin defeated Democratic nominee Nancy Goroff with 54.9% of the vote1. His dedication to his constituents and political savvy have been key to his success.
Zeldin’s political career has faced challenges, like his 2022 gubernatorial run. He lost to Kathy Hochul by just a few points2. Yet, his campaign showed his strong support among New Yorkers1.
Key Takeaways
- Lee Zeldin has been a prominent Republican politician in New York since 2011, serving in the state Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.
- He has won multiple elections with strong margins, demonstrating his ability to connect with voters.
- Zeldin’s 2022 gubernatorial campaign, despite the loss, highlighted his enduring popularity and influence in New York politics.
- Zeldin’s political journey has been marked by his commitment to his constituents and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape.
- Zeldin’s endorsement by former President Trump and his appointment to the EPA under the Trump administration demonstrate his close ties to the Republican Party.
Early Life and Education Background
Lee Zeldin was born in East Meadow, New York. He grew up in Suffolk County, Long Island3. He graduated from William Floyd High School in Mastic Beach4.
Then, he attended the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany. There, he got a bachelor’s degree in political science in 20014.
Zeldin didn’t stop there. He went to Albany Law School for his Juris Doctor. He got it in 2003 and was admitted to the New York State Bar in 20045. He became New York’s youngest attorney at 23354.
Military Education and Training
Zeldin also got an Army ROTC commission as a second lieutenant3. This started his military career. He spent four years in the U.S. Army354.
He worked as a Military Intelligence Officer, Federal Prosecutor, and Military Magistrate. His military experience has shaped his public service.
“My experience in the military has been invaluable in shaping my approach to public service and my commitment to serving the people of New York.”
Zeldin’s military background has helped him in politics. It gives him a unique perspective and skills.
Military Service and Legal Career
Lee Zeldin’s dedication to public service comes from his time in the military. He joined the United States Army in 2003 and served until 2007. Initially, he was in the Military Intelligence Corps6. Then, in 2007, he moved to the Army Reserve, reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel7.
After leaving the Army, Zeldin started a legal career. He became an attorney for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in 20076. In 2008, he opened a law firm in Smithtown, New York. He worked there full-time until he was elected to the New York State Senate in 2010.
Zeldin’s military time included a three-month stint in Iraq in 2006. He was part of the Judge Advocate General Corps with the 82nd Airborne Division6. During this time, he made at least 18 practice jumps at Fort Benning, earning several parachutist’s badges6. He received the Meritorious Service Medal in 2007 while with the 18th Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg. He ended his Army Reserve time as a major6.
Zeldin’s military and legal background have greatly influenced his political career. They have shaped his views on national security, military affairs, and legal reform7. His commitment to serving his country and community has always driven him.
Rise in New York State Politics
Lee Zeldin started his political career in New York by winning the 3rd District in the New York State Senate in 2010. He got 57% of the vote, beating the Democratic incumbent8. He was re-elected in 2012, showing he was becoming more popular with the people8.
New York State Senate Journey
As a state senator, Zeldin worked on a bill to cap property taxes at 2% and supported cutting the MTA payroll tax by $250 million. These moves showed his commitment to keeping taxes low for New Yorkers8. But, he also opposed the Marriage Equality Act and didn’t vote on the NY SAFE Act because of his Army Reserve duties. This showed his conservative views on social issues8.
Key Legislative Achievements
Zeldin made a big impact during his time in the New York State Senate. He introduced a bill to stop the Common Core curriculum, which many parents and teachers saw as a bad change8. He also voted against the New York Dream Act, which would have helped undocumented immigrant students pay for college. This showed his conservative stance8.
Notable Policy Positions
Zeldin’s time in the New York State Senate was marked by his conservative views. He opposed the Marriage Equality Act and didn’t vote on the NY SAFE Act, showing his stance on gun control8. His support for a property tax cap and MTA payroll tax cut made him known as a fiscally conservative, socially moderate Republican8.
“As a strong conservative, I’ve consistently fought for policies that promote fiscal responsibility, support our law enforcement, and protect our fundamental rights and freedoms.”
– Lee Zeldin, Former New York State Senator9
Congressional Journey: Lee Zeldin in the U.S. House
Lee Zeldin’s journey to the U.S. House of Representatives was filled with determination and hard work. He first ran in 2008 but lost10. But in 2014, he won the Republican nomination and beat Tim Bishop, getting 54% of the vote11. He was reelected in 2016, 2018, and 2020, serving from 2015 to 2023.
In Congress, Zeldin became a strong voice for his people, pushing for important issues. He was one of two Jewish Republicans in Congress in August 2020. He was also part of the NRCC’s Patriot Program to help protect vulnerable Republican incumbents.
| Key Congressional Achievements | Environmental Voting Record |
|---|---|
|
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Zeldin’s voting record has been criticized by environmental groups10. They point out his opposition to key environmental laws. Yet, Zeldin has focused on supporting economic growth and job creation, especially in automotive and artificial intelligence11.
As Zeldin’s time in Congress ended, he ran for New York’s governor in 202211. Though he lost, his work in Congress has had a lasting impact on his constituents and the political scene.
Notable Committee Assignments and Caucus Memberships
Congressman Lee Zeldin was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives12. He was on two key committees: the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Financial Services12. In the Foreign Affairs Committee, he was the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations12.
Zeldin was active in many caucuses. He was a co-chair of the Long Island Sound Caucus12. He also helped start the National Estuary Program Caucus12. As one of the few Jewish Republicans, he co-chaired the House Republican Israel Caucus with over 100 members12.
Zeldin spoke out against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. He co-led a resolution (H.Res.246) to fight it12. During his time in Congress, his office helped over 15,000 New York-1 constituents12.
Foreign Affairs Committee Work
Zeldin’s work on the House Foreign Affairs Committee helped shape U.S. foreign policy12. His role as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations13 allowed him to oversee important international issues12.
Financial Services Involvement
Zeldin also worked on the House Financial Services Committee for six years13. His knowledge in this area helped shape financial sector and economic policies12.
Zeldin showed a strong commitment to his constituents and worked with both parties13. His work in various caucuses and committees made him a respected figure in Congress12.
| Committee | Subcommittee | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Committee on Foreign Affairs | Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations | Ranking Member |
| Committee on Financial Services | Housing and Insurance, Oversight and Investigations, Terrorism and Illicit Finance | Member |
Zeldin’s dedication and involvement in Congress made him a respected figure13. His contributions to American politics will continue to influence the national conversation12.
“Congressman Zeldin has been a vocal opponent of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, co-leading a House passed resolution (H.Res.246) to combat it.”
2022 New York Gubernatorial Campaign
In April 2021, Lee Zeldin, a former New York Congressman, announced his run for governor14. He got support from many county Republican chairs and was seen as the likely nominee14. His campaign raised over $8 million in 2021, with most coming from small donations14. Zeldin won the Republican primary on June 29, 2022, setting up a big showdown against incumbent governor Kathy Hochul.
During his campaign, Zeldin was attacked at an event in Perinton, New York, but he was okay14. The 2022 New York gubernatorial race drew national interest as Zeldin aimed to be the first Republican to win statewide since 200214.
Kathy Hochul got 53% of the vote, winning in 13 counties, including New York City’s boroughs, except Staten Island14. Zeldin, her Republican opponent, didn’t concede right away but was expected to soon14.
| Candidate | Percentage of Votes | Number of Votes |
|---|---|---|
| Kathy Hochul | 53.12% | 3,140,415 |
| Lee Zeldin | 46.73% | 2,762,581 |
The 2022 New York gubernatorial race was the closest since 1994 and the closest Democratic win since 1982, with Hochul winning by 6.4 percentage points15. Hochul’s victory made her the first woman elected as New York’s governor15.
“Kathy Hochul’s victory in the New York gubernatorial race is a testament to her campaign’s focus on key issues and her ability to connect with voters across the state.”
The 2022 New York gubernatorial election saw a turnout of 47.74%, with Hochul getting 3,140,415 votes (53.12%) and Zeldin getting 2,762,581 votes (46.73%)15. Hochul’s campaign highlighted her stance on abortion rights and Zeldin’s ties to former President Donald Trump14.
Zeldin’s message of change was strong in the last month, but Hochul’s fundraising edge, over $50 million, was key to her win16. Hochul’s victory was also boosted by the Democratic registration advantage in New York City, where Mayor Eric Adams congratulated her16.
The 2022 New York gubernatorial election was closely watched, with Zeldin’s strong showing hinting at a shift in the state’s politics16. However, Hochul’s win, focusing on collaboration and transparency, solidified the Democratic party’s hold on the state’s executive branch161415.
Trump Administration and Environmental Protection Agency Nomination
In November 2024, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Lee Zeldin, a former New York congressman, to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)17. Trump praised Zeldin’s legal background and said he would make fair decisions while keeping high environmental standards18. Zeldin, who ran for New York governor in 2022, accepted the nomination17.
He aims to restore U.S. energy dominance, revitalize the auto industry, and lead in AI. He also wants to protect clean air and water17.
Vision for EPA Leadership
Zeldin, who is 44 years old17, wants to revitalize the EPA and strengthen its ties with Congress. He promises a balanced approach, ensuring regulations are fair and effective without harming the economy18. His appointment was seen as a surprise but was welcomed by New York Republican chair Ed Cox18.
Environmental Policy Stance
During his 15 years in Congress, Zeldin scored 14% from the League of Conservation Voters on environmental issues17. He rarely talked about environmental or climate issues. Yet, he expressed doubts about global heating and didn’t support the Paris climate agreement17.
However, Zeldin did push to change federal waters in Long Island Sound to state jurisdiction for New York and Rhode Island in 201618. The nomination needs Senate confirmation, and Zeldin’s environmental policy will be closely watched.
“We must find a way to balance environmental protection with economic growth and energy dominance. My goal is to make the U.S. a global leader in clean air, clean water, and sustainable energy solutions.” – Lee Zeldin
Political Positions and Legislative Impact
Lee Zeldin was a U.S. Congressman from New York known for his conservative views and ties to Donald Trump18. He ran for governor in 2022 but lost18. He left Congress in January 202318. Zeldin voted against certifying the 2020 election results18.
Zeldin supported many Republican and conservative causes. He took pro-life stances and backed Trump’s policies18. In 2016, he tried to change federal waters in Long Island Sound to state control for New York and Rhode Island18. Despite being a conservative, he did well against Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul in 202218.
Zeldin was close to Trump in Congress, defending him during impeachment hearings18. He disagreed with Trump’s plan to cut the EPA in 20168. Yet, the appointment of Stephen Miller and Rep. Elise Stefanik suggest Zeldin’s influence on Trump’s policies18.
| Key Legislative Achievements | Noteworthy Policy Positions |
|---|---|
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Lee Zeldin’s career was marked by his conservative views and support for Republican causes188. His possible role at the EPA could greatly affect the agency’s policies8.
“Zeldin disagreed with then-candidate Trump’s call to eliminate the EPA in 2016, but the appointment of Stephen Miller, a Trump ally, as the deputy chief of policy in the new administration, and the nomination of Rep. Elise Stefanik as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, suggest that Zeldin may have had a significant influence on Trump’s environmental and foreign policy decisions.”
Conclusion
Lee Zeldin has made a big impact in the Republican Party. He has moved from the New York State Senate to the U.S. House of Representatives. He even ran for New York governor, showing his dedication to conservative values and former President Trump’s vision19.
Zeldin was picked by President-elect Trump to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. This shows his big role in environmental policy20. But, his voting record is a concern. He voted against environmental bills about 85% of the time. He got a 14% grade from the League of Conservation Voters20.
Lee Zeldin’s career is all about sticking to conservative values and supporting veterans. He worked closely with the Trump administration. As he moves on from Congress, his influence on the Republican Party and environmental policies will still be felt19.
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Source Links
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Zeldin – Lee Zeldin
- https://www.jta.org/2024/11/11/ny/trump-picks-lee-zeldin-jewish-former-congressman-from-long-island-to-head-epa – Trump picks Lee Zeldin, Jewish former congressman from Long Island, to head EPA – Jewish Telegraphic Agency
- https://zeldinfornewyork.com/meet-lee/ – Zeldin for New York
- https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/lee-zeldin-jewish-virtual-library – Lee Zeldin
- https://www.nysenate.gov/senators/lee-m-zeldin – Lee Zeldin
- https://www.easthamptonstar.com/government/20221013/look-zeldins-army-days – A Look at Zeldin’s Army Days
- https://americafirstpolicy.com/team/the-honorable-lee-zeldin – The Honorable Lee Zeldin
- https://news.bloomberglaw.com/esg/trump-picks-long-island-congressman-lee-zeldin-to-lead-epa – Trump Picks Former Congressman Lee Zeldin to Lead the EPA (2)
- https://nypost.com/2024/10/31/us-news/lee-zeldin-outlines-the-odds-of-trump-winning-new-york/ – Exclusive | Trump’s heavy campaigning in deep-blue New York is helping down ballot Republicans: Lee Zeldin
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/11/politics/lee-zeldin-epa-administrator/index.html – Trump picks GOP former congressman Lee Zeldin to lead the EPA | CNN Politics
- https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/11/trump-taps-rep-lee-zeldin-epa-administrator-cabinet.html – Trump taps Lee Zeldin as EPA chief, Rep. Elise Stefanik for UN ambassador
- http://ddcapp.oklegislature.gov/legislatordetail.aspx?LegisID=FEC90337 – Oklahoma Legislature Legislator Detail
- https://leadershipamericaneeds.com/meet-lee-zeldin/ – Meet Lee Zeldin – Leadership America Needs
- https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/live-updates/election-results-2022-new-york-governor-race-results-kathy-hochul-lee-zeldin-connecticut-new-jersey/ – Election Results 2022: Hochul declares victory in New York governor’s race, Zeldin concedes
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_New_York_gubernatorial_election – 2022 New York gubernatorial election
- https://abc7ny.com/governor-kathy-hochul-lee-zeldin-election-day-new-york/12429413/ – Election Day 2022: Hochul declares victory as governor of New York, Lee Zeldin concedes
- https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/nov/11/trump-appoint-lee-zeldin-epa-chief – Trump picks ally Lee Zeldin as environment chief and vows to roll back rules
- https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-taps-lee-zeldin-to-lead-epa – Trump taps Lee Zeldin to lead EPA
- https://www.wmtw.com/article/trump-names-lee-zeldin-to-lead-epa/62873796 – Trump names Lee Zeldin to lead EPA in new administration
- https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/lee-zeldin-trump-epa-head-b2645219.html – Lee Zeldin – ‘who voted against environmental bills’ – named Trump’s EPA head
