During his more than 10 years as governor, Leavitt touted an environmental philosophy he called “Enlibra,” which is defined as a move toward balance. Yet, in practice, many of his decisions tilted against environmental protections.
For example, Leavitt sought to build a highway near Salt Lake City, with part of it running through the wetlands of Great Salt Lake. He also worked out a secret deal with Interior Secretary Gale Norton that strips away protections for millions of acres of pristine Utah lands.
“Governor Leavitt’s appointment to head the EPA puts an anti-environmental politician in charge of regulating industries that pollute the nation’s air and water,” said Earthjustice Denver attorney Jim Angell.
Leavitt must now be confirmed by the Senate and is expected to face tough questioning by Democrats.