The U.S. Senate confirmed Gina McCarthy to take over as new head of the Environmental Protection Agency with a 59-40 vote.
McCarthy previously led the EPA’s air and radiation office during President Barack Obama’s first term, while also playing a role in the administration’s efforts to address global warming.
Her confirmation comes weeks after Obama unveiled his controversial Climate Change Action Plan, which seeks to reduce America’s carbon emissions through the development of new renewable sources — including hydroelectric power — and regulating America’s current fleet of fossil-fueled generating sources.
“[McCarthy] is a proven leader who knows how to build bipartisan support for commonsense environmental solutions that protect the health and safety of our kids while promoting economic growth,” Obama said.
The president nominated McCarthy in March after former EPA head Lisa Jackson announced she was leaving the agency.
McCarthy joins two other recent newcomers on Obama’s cabinet. Also recently confirmed are Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz and Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell.
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