Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) has expressed his strong opposition to the nomination of Joseph Goffman as Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In a statement, Senator Cramer highlighted his concerns about Goffman's track record and lack of commitment to meeting with North Dakota regulators.

According to Senator Cramer, Goffman is a "climate zealot" who has been involved in the creation of burdensome regulations under the Biden administration. Cramer stated, "Joe Goffman is a climate zealot who has played a primary role in some of the most excessive, overbearing rules the Biden administration churns out. His role as architect of the Clean Power Plan 2.0 is reason enough to vote against him, but he didn’t even meet his most basic commitment to me to meet with North Dakota regulators. His entire record shows he uses federalism for toilet paper."

One of the key issues for Senator Cramer was Goffman's failure to fulfill his commitment to meet with North Dakota regulators. During Goffman's initial hearing before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, he had pledged to have a meeting with North Dakota officials. However, when questioned by Senator Cramer nine months later, Goffman admitted that he had not yet met with them.

Senator Cramer's decision to vote against Goffman's nomination reflects his concerns about Goffman's approach to environmental regulations and his failure to follow through on his commitments. The Senator's statement underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in the nomination process.

This vote against Goffman is part of a larger debate surrounding the Biden administration's environmental policies. It highlights the differing perspectives on how to address climate change and balance the needs of different regions and industries.

As the nomination process continues, it remains to be seen how Goffman's lack of engagement with North Dakota regulators will impact his confirmation. Senator Cramer's statement serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough vetting and meaningful dialogue in the selection of candidates for key positions in government agencies like the EPA.