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EPA administrator Lee Zeldin cancels $50 million grant to ‘climate justice’ group, citing questionable use of taxpayer money.
At a Glance
- EPA administrator Lee Zeldin cancels $50 million grant to Climate Justice Alliance
- $160 million sent to bankrupt Canadian electric bus manufacturer
- Zeldin’s team uncovers $20 billion in wasted taxpayer funds
- HUD identifies $260 million in savings through DOGE Task Force
- Concerns rise over potential downsizing of HUD under DOGE leadership
EPA Administrator Takes Action Against Wasteful Spending
In a bold move against government waste, newly appointed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator Lee Zeldin has taken swift action to protect taxpayer dollars. Zeldin, who assumed his role at the end of January, wasted no time in addressing questionable spending practices left over from the previous administration.
During an appearance on “The Story with Martha MacCallum,” Zeldin announced the cancellation of a substantial grant that raised eyebrows among fiscal conservatives. “Just earlier today, I canceled a $50 million grant to an organization called the Climate Justice Alliance,” Zeldin stated. He went on to explain the reasoning behind this decision, citing the organization’s political stance on international issues.
🚨I just cancelled a $50 MILLION Biden-era environmental justice grant to the Climate Justice Alliance, which believes “climate justice travels through a Free Palestine”.
— Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) February 13, 2025
This cancellation is just the tip of the iceberg in what appears to be a larger effort to scrutinize and rectify wasteful spending practices within the EPA. Zeldin’s team has reportedly uncovered billions of dollars in misused funds under the previous administration, signaling a significant shift in the agency’s financial management approach.
Electric Bus Fiasco: A $160 Million Lesson
Another glaring example of financial mismanagement came to light as Zeldin revealed details about a $160 million payment made to a Canadian electric bus manufacturer. Instead of following a standard payment schedule based on production milestones, the EPA under the Biden administration sent the full amount upfront. The company has since declared bankruptcy, leaving 55 school districts without their promised buses.
A Canadian electric bus manufacturer that @EPA had awarded $160M in tax dollars is now filing for bankruptcy.
$95,000,000 in buses across 55 school districts remain undelivered!
My lawful duty to the American taxpayer is to END every last penny of waste and abuse at the EPA. https://t.co/ZeXj0EATG9
— Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) February 7, 2025
This incident highlights the need for more rigorous oversight and responsible financial practices within government agencies. It also raises questions about the due diligence performed before awarding such substantial contracts, especially to foreign entities.
DOGE: Sniffing Out Government Waste
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a new entity within the Executive Office of the President co-chaired by Elon Musk, is at the forefront of efforts to cut government spending and increase efficiency. This initiative extends beyond the EPA, with significant impacts already seen at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
HUD Secretary Scott Turner announced the formation of a DOGE Task Force within his department, which has already identified $260 million in potential savings. This development is part of a broader push by the Trump administration to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending.
Concerns and Controversies
While the efforts to reduce government waste are generally seen as positive, they are not without controversy. There are growing concerns about the potential downsizing of HUD under DOGE’s leadership. Critics argue that some of the targeted programs provide essential services to vulnerable populations and that cuts could have far-reaching societal impacts.
Additionally, the review of contracts and grants has created a chaotic planning environment within affected agencies. Some employees report high stress levels and fear of job loss, with many considering retirement or leaving their positions. While DOGE’s contract review may expose oversight issues, there are also concerns about potential cronyism in the reallocation of funds.
As the Trump administration continues its crusade against government waste, the balance between fiscal responsibility and maintaining essential services remains a contentious issue. The coming months will likely see further developments as DOGE expands its reach across other federal agencies, potentially reshaping the landscape of government spending for years to come.