President Barack Obama has announced nominations to fill two cabinet vacancies: Ernie Moniz has been nominated for Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE), and Gina McCarthy for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Moniz, who replaces the departing Steven Chu, previously served as Under Secretary of Energy under President Bill Clinton. He has also directed the Energy Initiative at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
‘Most importantly, Ernie knows that we can produce more energy and grow our economy, while still taking care of our air, our water and our climate,’ Obama said at a press conference announcing the nominations. ‘And so I could not be more pleased to have Ernie join us.’
McCarthy, who replaces Lisa Jackson, previously served as Assistant EPA Administrator. She was also a top environmental official at state-level positions in Massachusetts and Connecticut, where she helped expand renewable energy and energy efficiency, Obama noted.
‘As Assistant EPA Administrator, Gina has focused on practical, cost-effective ways to keep our air clean and our economy growing,’ Obama said. ‘She's earned a reputation as a straight shooter. She welcomes different points of view.’
Both Moniz and McCarthy must be confirmed by the Senate.
