Voters Put a Check on the Reckless Policies of the Trump Administration

“Last night the American people voted to put a check on the excesses of the Trump administration. The voters are clearly demanding changes in Washington, a return to common sense policies, and greater accountability from their elected leaders. The results were also a rebuke to the current leadership of the House of Representatives, which has voted repeatedly to undermine science, roll back environmental safeguards, and allow more pollution.

“Pro-environmental candidates and climate champions were on the ballot in hundreds of elections at the federal, state and local levels. Many winning candidates made environmental protection central to their campaigns; and many who reject climate science were defeated. Even in races where pro-environment candidates did not prevail, clean air, clean water and climate change were issues both sides attempted to claim.

“The election results will bring welcome oversight and accountability to the Trump administration. We will continue to work with members of both parties to make progress toward climate solutions, defend EPA’s budget, protect American families from dangerous chemicals, and strengthen our core environmental laws and regulations.

“Beginning in January, Washington — and state houses around the country — will see a growing chorus of new young leaders demanding action on climate change and adequate protections from pollution. The House of Representatives will see a record number of women, many strongly pro-environment. As a result, this election gives us an opportunity to check the excesses of this administration, and hold it accountable for undermining health and environmental safeguards. Everyone who voted for a cleaner, healthier, more prosperous future must now join together to make it happen.”

• Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund