The Liberty Score is a rating system assessing how closely an individual’s views align with core Libertarian principles. Scores are based on a 0-100 scale, with 100 representing a fully Libertarian position and 0 representing complete opposition to Libertarian values. The grading criteria include:
Each category will be scored, then averaged to form the individual’s overall Liberty Score, providing a clear snapshot of their alignment with Libertarian ideals. Grades are provided by AI
Liberty Score Assessment:
Personal Freedom (15/25): Lee Zeldin has generally supported individual rights; however, his voting record includes support for surveillance measures that may infringe on personal privacy.
Economic Freedom (20/25): Zeldin advocates for deregulation and free-market policies, particularly in the energy sector, aligning with Libertarian economic principles.
Limited Government (15/25): While promoting reduced regulatory oversight, Zeldin has supported certain government interventions, indicating a mixed stance on limiting government size and scope.
Non-Intervention (10/25): Zeldin has supported military engagements and a strong national defense, reflecting a more interventionist foreign policy approach.
Lee Zeldin, a former U.S. Representative from New York, is considered for the role of EPA Administrator. Known for his strong performance in the 2022 New York gubernatorial race, Zeldin campaigned on issues including energy independence and economic reform, specifically calling for the state to lift its ban on fracking for natural gas. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Zeldin served in Congress for seven terms, where he was active on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Financial Services Committee. Notably, Zeldin was one of only two Jewish Republicans in Congress during his tenure.
The EPA Administrator is responsible for directing U.S. environmental policy and managing the agency’s regulatory activities. Under recent Democratic leadership, the EPA focused on measures to address climate change, including clean air standards and funding initiatives under the Inflation Reduction Act. A Trump-led EPA, however, may shift its focus toward deregulation, potentially reversing or modifying Biden-era policies that restrict fossil fuel production and prioritize environmental protections.
If selected, Zeldin’s background suggests he may approach the role with a focus on energy independence and economic growth, aligning with policies that support expanded fossil fuel production and deregulation. This shift could impact clean air regulations and renewable energy investments, as well as signal a redirection in how the EPA balances environmental goals with economic priorities.