WASHINGTON – The confirmation process for Donald Trump’s administration continued on Thursday, as senators scrutinized his selections for the Treasury, Interior, and Housing and Urban Development departments, along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They also heard from witnesses supporting Pam Bondi in her pursuit of the role of U.S. attorney general.

Lee Zeldin, Trump’s nominee for EPA administrator, and Doug Burgum, his selection for Interior secretary, addressed inquiries about climate change from Democratic senators, as the incoming administration plans to broaden oil and gas drilling on public land.

The hearings maintained a civil tone despite the challenging questions posed, in contrast to the intense confrontations that characterized the earlier hearings of former Fox and Friends co-host Pete Hegseth, nominated for Defense secretary, and Bondi, who aims to head the Justice Department.

Bondi, previously Florida’s attorney general, faced intense questioning on Wednesday from Democrats on the Judiciary Committee, particularly regarding her refusal to recognize Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. Senators from both sides indicated she was likely to be confirmed. Hegseth also weathered a turbulent hearing where he was grilled over allegations of sexual assault and alcohol abuse, which he denies and for which no criminal charges have been filed.

Thursday’s hearings also featured Scott Bessent, Trump’s nominee for Treasury secretary, and Eric Turner, slated to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Stay tuned to YSL News for ongoing coverage as Trump’s team prepares to officially take charge in Washington.

Will Trump End Electric Vehicles?

President-elect Donald Trump has often stated his intention to repeal vehicle emission regulations that would encourage the sale of electric vehicles on his first day in office. However, during Thursday’s session, his EPA nominee, Lee Zeldin, took a more measured stance regarding this issue when questioned by senators.

Zeldin, the former U.S. Representative from New York, did not commit to undoing the so-called “EV mandate” as requested and instead acknowledged concerns surrounding regulations established by President Joe Biden’s administration.

When asked by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts of Nebraska if he would promise to reverse such regulations, Zeldin stated, “I will not prejudge outcomes.” He emphasized his commitment to ensuring the EPA pursues “commonsense, pragmatic solutions” to environmental challenges.

−Todd Spangler

Pam Bondi’s Second Day of Confirmation Hearing Concludes

The second day of Pam Bondi’s Senate confirmation hearing wrapped up after witnesses praised her priorities and experience, particularly her role as a former prosecutor and Florida attorney general. However, a consumer advocate expressed concerns regarding her past lobbying work.

Dave Aronberg, a Democrat and former state attorney for Palm Beach County, recounted Bondi’s decision to offer him a position as drug czar despite his political affiliation as a Democrat.

“She didn’t mind that I was a Democrat,” Aronberg noted. “Thanks to our efforts, Florida’s pill mills are gone, and the notorious ‘Oxycontin Express’ is just a memory, saving countless lives and marking a significant reduction in our state’s drug problem.”

Conversely, Lisa Gilbert, co-president of the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, raised alarms regarding Bondi’s nomination. Gilbert pointed out that over the last five years, Bondi lobbied for 30 clients, including Amazon and Geo Group, a private prison corporation. On Wednesday, Bondi stated she would seek guidance from ethics officials in the Justice Department to navigate potential conflicts of interest.

“This high level of corporate involvement raises serious concerns,” warned Gilbert. “We believe that simple recusals would not be sufficient to address this degree of corporate alignment.”

– Aysha Bagchi

Burgum Questioned on Federal Aid Conditions

Senator Alex Padilla of California, whose state is currently grappling with devastating wildfires, queried Burgum about whether he believes federal aid should have stipulations attached to it.

“Well, I think each scenario would differ,” Burgum replied.

Padilla’s inquiry comes in light of Trump’s and certain Republican lawmakers’ calls for conditional disaster aid to California, stemming from a tense relationship between the president-elect and Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. Trump has attributed the wildfires to Newsom, while Newsom has urged Trump to keep politics out of the situation.

The Department of Interior plays a crucial role in responding to wildfires and managing the corresponding budgets.

Padilla then pressed Burgum on whether he would commit to responding to all disasters, irrespective of state or jurisdiction. “Absolutely,” Burgum affirmed.

−Sudiksha Kochi

Whitehouse Inquires About Fossil Fuel Influence on Trump’s EPA

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island cautioned Zeldin about potential pressures from fossil fuel industry leaders and lobbyists.

“They’ll be coming after you with great force,” Whitehouse warned. “They’ll feel quite entitled due to their financial backing of a Trump win.”

Zeldin is anticipated to support Trump’s initiatives aimed at deregulation and increasing fossil fuel production.

Whitehouse also inquired about calls from certain individuals within the Trump camp to reduce staffing at agencies like the EPA and whether Zeldin would go along with such directives.

“I’m not entering this role with any threats,” Zeldin responded. “My commitment here is to do the best job possible in leading the EPA.”

−Savannah Kuchar

Sanders Questions Bessent on Capping Credit Card Interest Rates

Senator Bernie Sanders questioned Scott Bessent on whether Donald Trump would fulfill a campaign promise to limit credit card interest rates.

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, credit card debts surged by $24 billion, reaching $1.17 trillion during the third quarter of 2024.

“President-Elect Trump stated he would cap credit card rates at 10%,” Sanders noted. “I believe that’s a solid plan, and I intend to introduce legislation regarding this matter soon.”

Sanders then asked Bessent if he would support such legislation.

“If I am confirmed, I will act in accordance with President Trump’s wishes,” he replied.

−Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy

Pam Bondi’s Actions Under Trump: No Legal Shield

During a session of the Judiciary Committee, Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) posed a question to Mary B. McCord, who leads a constitutional rights organization at the Georgetown University Law Center. He inquired about the appropriate actions for an attorney general if President-elect Donald Trump is protected from legal action for allegedly misusing the Department of Justice.

The Supreme Court’s ruling on July 1 indicated that Trump has “absolute immunity” from criminal prosecution related to his alleged attempts to manipulate the Justice Department to invalidate the 2020 election results.

McCord pointed out that the immunity ruling seems to apply solely to the President. Therefore, if Attorney General Bondi were to engage in unlawful or unconstitutional actions at Trump’s directive, she would not be immune from prosecution. “This highlights the necessity of independence in the Attorney General’s role, especially in light of that ruling, as she is in a key position to challenge the President,” McCord elaborated.

– Aysha Bagchi

California Senator Challenges Zeldin on Fire Disaster Aid

Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) asked Zeldin about his commitment to support Californians who are suffering from the recent severe wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

Zeldin expressed that he felt compassion for the situation in southern California.

“I would strive to assist in any way I can,” he stated.

There has been interest from Trump and some House Republicans to impose conditions on disaster relief for California during this tense period between the President-elect and Governor Gavin Newsom, who has taken steps to bypass certain environmental regulations to expedite recovery efforts in Los Angeles after the wildfires.

“Mr. Zeldin, can I assume that your response will be consistent regardless of whether the disaster affects a red state or a blue state, ensuring relief for all victims?” Schiff questioned on Thursday.

“Yes, Senator,” Zeldin replied.

— Savannah Kuchar

Hirono Takes on Climate Change, Burgum Advocates for Carbon Capture

Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) confronted Burgum regarding climate change, referencing Trump’s push for increased oil and gas extraction.

Currently, more than 23 million acres of public land are leased for oil and gas drilling, and Trump has vowed to expand this practice.

Hirono pointed out that two former Republican defense secretaries, James Mattis and Chuck Hagel, considered climate change a serious national security issue. In response, Burgum claimed he was unaware of such testimonies.

“However, within fossil fuel conversations, the main concern has been emissions, and we possess technology like carbon capture to eliminate detrimental emissions,” he stated.

Hirono retorted, “It’s concerning that you choose to support actions that will increase fossil fuel consumption when military leaders have acknowledged climate change is a significant problem.”

−Sudiksha Kochi

Bessent Shares His ‘Only in America’ Narrative to Senate

Scott Bessent introduced himself during his Treasury secretary confirmation hearing by recounting his modest beginnings in South Carolina.

“When I was young, my father faced severe financial troubles,” he explained. “At nine, I took on two summer jobs, and I’ve been working ever since.”

Bessent persevered and attended Yale University. He discussed how his first finance internship offered the bonus of a pull-out sofa for sleeping at the office.

“That allowed me to live rent-free in New York City,” he humorously noted.

Through his career, he has collaborated with top investors and traveled to nearly 60 countries.

“My life exemplifies an ‘only in America’ story that I am passionate about passing down,” Bessent declared, “I believe that President Trump has the unique chance to spark a new era of economic prosperity, generating more jobs and wealth for all Americans.”

−Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy

Sanders Questions Zeldin on Trump’s Climate Stance

With President-elect Trump labeling climate change a “hoax,” Zeldin, his chosen head for the Environmental Protection Agency, faced probing questions from Democratic senators regarding this stance.

“Do you share President-elect Trump’s belief that climate change is a hoax?” asked Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Zeldin stated he recognizes climate change as a reality while defending Trump’s statements.

“From what I’ve heard, Trump’s critique was directed at certain policies born from climate change concerns. He’s worried about the economic implications of some of those policies, reflecting differing viewpoints across party lines,” Zeldin explained.

“I must respectfully disagree with you,” Sanders replied.

−Savannah Kuchar

Day 2 of Pam Bondi’s Confirmation Process: Witnesses Revealed

The second day of Pam Bondi’s confirmation process is underway. After Bondi addressed questions from the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday, various witnesses are set to present their views on her nomination today:

Dave Aronberg, the former state attorney for Palm Beach County, Florida, and an ex-member of the Florida Senate. Aronberg is a Democrat.

Nicholas B. Cox, a statewide prosecutor within the Florida Attorney General’s office.

Emery Gainey, a former sheriff from Alachua County, Florida.

Lisa Gilbert, co-president of the nonprofit consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, which has assessed Bondi’s previous lobbying activities.

Mary B. McCord, who leads the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown University Law Center.

– Aysha Bagchi

Senators Address California Fire Crisis at Burgum Hearing

Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), chair of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and ranking member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), began their discussions by addressing the wildfires that have resulted in 25 fatalities and the destruction of numerous buildings and schools in Los Angeles. Heinrich described the situation as “horrific,” emphasizing the need for enhanced action against climate change.

Lee emphasized that tackling the wildfire crisis affecting western states would be a “top priority” for Burgum if confirmed.

“Mismanagement of public lands has repercussions that often extend far beyond rural communities,” Lee said. “It is crucial for federal agencies to reassess their wildfire management tactics, focusing on forest management strategies that can lessen the chances of devastating losses.”

— Sudiksha Kochi

Zeldin Hearing Commences with an Unexpected Twist

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) kicked off the session with his opening remarks began on a cheerful note: “I want everyone to know that I have a favorable impression of the chairman.”

“That’s a great start,” he added, eliciting laughter from the audience.

Whitehouse then presented Sen. Shelley Capito, R-W.V., who chairs the committee overseeing Zeldin’s confirmation hearing, with a gavel crafted in 1956 from wood sourced from the old West Virginia statehouse.

“May you wield it with good health,” Whitehouse remarked.

— Savannah Kuchar

Who is Doug Burgum?

Burgum is a businessman who served two terms as governor of North Dakota from 2016 to 2024. Prior to that, he worked in the private sector as a senior vice president at Microsoft and co-founded the regional venture capital firm Arthur Ventures, according to the governor’s office.

Trump nominated Burgum to be his secretary of the Interior and to chair a new National Energy Council, which Trump stated would “guide the journey to U.S. ENERGY DOMINANCE.”

Burgum is campaigning in the Republican 2024 primaries against Trump, focusing mainly on energy, national security, and economic issues. He is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources at 10 a.m.

— Sudiksha Kochi

Trump’s environmental nominee Lee Zeldin is favored by the industry

Lee Zeldin, 44, Trump’s nominee to head the Environmental Protection Agency, is a former congressman from New York. Zeldin, a Republican, left his House seat in 2022 to run for governor of New York, where he lost to Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul.

During his time in Congress, Zeldin was against climate initiatives like funding for climate-resilient wastewater systems and fought against plans to dispose of dredge waste in the Long Island Sound.

He is set to appear on Thursday before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, led by Sen. Shelley Capito, R-W.V.

— Savannah Kuchar, Fernando Cervantes Jr. and Joey Garrison

Scott Bessent is likely to face scrutiny over financial crises

Scott Bessent, a seasoned Wall Street professional and Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary, is due for his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday in front of a largely supportive audience. However, he should prepare for tough questions from a prominent Democratic senator about financial deregulation, seen as a major contributor to previous economic downturns.

At 62, Bessent is scheduled to speak before the Senate Finance Committee in the U.S. Capitol. He previously served as chief investment officer for Soros Fund Management and now leads the Connecticut-based hedge fund Key Square Group, which he founded. If approved, Bessent would mark the first openly gay Cabinet member in a Republican administration. Notably, he has crossed party lines, having hosted a fundraiser for former Vice President Al Gore’s presidential campaign in 2000.

“Scott has always been a staunch supporter of the America First Agenda,” Trump stated in a November announcement regarding his Treasury nominee.

−Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy

Trump’s appointees show loyalty to him

During his initial presidency from 2017 to 2021, Trump frequently clashed with key personnel in his administration. Now, the president-elect is nominating individuals who closely share his views and are less likely to oppose him.

Democrats repeatedly questioned Bondi on whether she believes Trump lost the 2020 election. She refrained from a clear answer, merely stating that she recognized Joe Biden as the current president.

“It’s concerning that you cannot express who actually won the 2020 election,” commented Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii.

−Zachary Anderson

Democrats ready to challenge Kash Patel, Trump’s FBI nominee

Democratic senators are preparing to resist Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel to lead the FBI, as indicated by their inquiries during the confirmation hearing for attorney general nominee Pam Bondi.

Several Democrats, despite appearing willing to support Bondi’s confirmation, took the chance to express concerns about Patel potentially leading the nation’s principal law enforcement agency. Patel’s Senate confirmation hearing date has not been set yet.

A former federal prosecutor and Republican congressional aide, Patel has stated that if appointed FBI director, he would “close down the FBI Hoover Building on day one and reopen it the following day as a museum to the deep state.” Trump praised Patel’s 2023 book, “Government Gangsters,” on Truth Social, calling it “the blueprint to dismantle the Deep State’s dominance.”

−Aysha Bagchi and Bart Jansen