Opposing view: Wheeler will be an outstanding leader at EPA

Americans deserve clean air and water. They also deserve clear rules from Washington.

That is why Andrew Wheeler is the right person to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. President Donald Trump’s nominee has received bipartisan praise for his fairness and respect for the environment, the agency and the law.

Since July, Mr. Wheeler has served as acting administrator. Under his leadership, EPA has issued commonsense policy regulations to protect our environment, while still allowing America’s economy to grow.

Overreaching regulations such as the so-called Clean Power Plan and Waters of the United States rule would have damaged our economy and cost Americans jobs with minimal benefit to the environment.

These regulations weren’t just bad policy, they were illegal. With Andrew Wheeler in charge, the agency has worked with states to draft commonsense replacement rules that protect the environment, follow the law and are simpler to understand.

Mr. Wheeler is also leading EPA’s efforts to keep families safe at home. For example, an initiative to limit children’s exposure to lead has become an agency priority under his leadership.

He has spent decades working on environmental policy. Long before his time in leadership at the EPA, he served as a staff member at the agency. He has hands-on experience working in the department he will now lead.

He knows the legislative process from his time as staff director of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. He was also a consultant for energy and environmental clients in the private sector.

President Trump made the right pick when he nominated Andrew Wheeler. He will be an outstanding administrator at the EPA.

Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., is chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.