Lee Zeldin

Lee Zeldin is an American attorney, military veteran and politician who became the first Jewish administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Influence and contribution

Zeldin served in Iraq and represented New York in Congress before leading the EPA. He has pursued an extensive deregulatory agenda and remained a vocal supporter of Israel; environmental and public-health groups have strongly challenged major elements of his policy.

Legacy and significance

His inclusion records both a historic first and a consequential shift in American environmental governance. Moreshet presents the public service, Jewish identity and policy dispute together rather than treating any one of them as the whole story.

Editorial note on inclusion

Lee Zeldin is included even though this public figure and their record are controversial among broad sections of the public. Inclusion does not declare the influence positive or negative; it records a consequential role in shaping the lived experience, culture and way of life of the communities affected. The existence of sharply differing assessments is itself part of the historical record and supports documenting this figure within the legacy of the Jewish people.

Sources and further reading

• Source profile — The Jerusalem Post

Information reviewed and edited in September 2026.