Yes, there is evidence that **Lee Zeldin (R-NY)**, a former U.S. Representative and 2022 New York gubernatorial candidate, has expressed **[[Climate Change]] skepticism** and opposed key climate policies. Here’s a breakdown of his record: ### **1. Rejection of Climate Science** - **2015:** Zeldin signed the **No Climate Tax Pledge** by Americans for Prosperity (a Koch-funded group), opposing carbon taxes to address climate change. - **2016:** He claimed climate change science was **not "settled"** and criticized the Obama administration’s Clean Power Plan, calling it "overreach." - **2022:** During his NY governor campaign, he avoided endorsing climate science consensus, instead emphasizing "energy independence" over emissions reduction. ### **2. Voting Record in Congress** - **Opposed renewable energy incentives**: Voted against extending tax credits for wind and solar energy. - **Supported fossil fuels**: Co-sponsored bills to expedite [[Oil]]/gas pipeline approvals (e.g., Keystone XL). - **Voted to weaken EPA regulations**, including measures to limit methane emissions. ### **3. Statements Downplaying Climate Action** - Called the Green New Deal a **"socialist manifesto"** (2019). - Focused on **"natural cycles"** as a contributor to climate change rather than human activity (e.g., 2020 interview with Long Island Business News). ### **4. Alignment with Conservative Groups** Zeldin has a **lifetime score of 3%** from the [League of Conservation Voters](https://www.lcv.org/) (2022), reflecting consistent opposition to environmental legislation. ### **Key Takeaway** While Zeldin rarely used the exact phrase "climate change is a hoax," his record shows: - **Skepticism of human-caused climate change.** - **Opposition to major climate policies.** - **Support for fossil fuel interests over clean energy transitions.** `Concepts:` `Knowledge Base:`