Statement of Eileen Claussen

President, Center for Climate and Energy Solutions

March 4, 2013

We applaud the nomination of Gina McCarthy to be the next administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

President Obama has declared that unless Congress acts, he’s prepared to use his executive authorities to strengthen climate action, and EPA is certain to play a strong role in these efforts.

As the nation’s top air quality regulator, Ms. McCarthy has a deep understanding of the challenges EPA faces in applying the Clean Air Act to the urgent task of reducing carbon emissions.  From her years in state government, she also brings a crucial understanding of the role of states in implementing new EPA carbon standards.

In moving forward, it is critical that EPA consult closely with states, business and other stakeholders.  We look forward to working with Ms. McCarthy to arrive at strong, sensible greenhouse gas standards.