WASHINGTON – President-elect Joe Biden plans to nominate a powerhouse slate of environmental leaders to key positions in his administration. Former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is set to join the Biden cabinet as the next Secretary of Energy. Former South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg will reportedly be the nominee to head the Department of Transportation. And, former Environmental Protection Agency chief Gina McCarthy is expected to serve as the White House advisor on climate, overseeing domestic efforts to combat climate change. McCarthy will work in partnership with former Sen. John Kerry, who will be appointed special presidential envoy for climate and handle U.S. climate efforts on the international front.
Environment America’s Acting President Wendy Wendlandt issued the following statement:
“With these picks, President-elect Biden is acting on his campaign promise to prioritize climate action. All three bring a wealth of experience and qualifications to help the Biden administration resolve climate issues through shifts in clean energy and transportation policy. Each is demonstrably committed to building a cleaner, healthier future for all Americans — all of which is necessary to create smart, comprehensive and durable solutions.
“Governor Granholm has collaborated with the utility and auto sectors to forge a strong path forward on renewable energy and low carbon solutions to powering our country. Mayor Buttigieg’s campaign platform talked about building a clean transportation future and a commitment to ensuring that Americans can get around safely and conveniently, while cleaning up our air and cutting fossil fuel emissions. And, former EPA Administrator McCarthy is one of America’s most experienced and qualified environmental leaders. She has worked tirelessly for decades for a stable climate. Together with special envoy on climate John Kerry, this duo will bring assurance to the international community that the U.S. is ready once again to tackle the climate crisis.
“We look forward to collaborating with the Biden administration on clean transportation, a rapid transition to renewable energy, and cutting carbon pollution as quickly as possible — and once again making protection of the environment and public health a top priority.”
This post was originally published on Radio Free.
