Challenges in the Life of Lee Zeldin in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Lee Zeldin faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Lee Michael Zeldin is an American attorney, politician, and officer in the United States Army Reserve. A Republican, he served as the U.S. Representative for New York's 1st congressional district from 2015 to 2023. Prior to that, he was a member of the New York State Senate (2011-2014). Since January 2025, Zeldin has served as the 17th administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2008: Challenges Tim Bishop

In 2008, Lee Zeldin challenged incumbent representative Tim Bishop in New York's 1st congressional district. Bishop defeated Zeldin 58%–42%.

April 2015: Introduction of the Fluke Fairness Act

In April 2015, Lee Zeldin and Senator Chuck Schumer introduced the Fluke Fairness Act. The bill aimed to change the management of fluke fishing quotas by creating a regional approach, but it did not pass.

July 15, 2015: Introduction of the Exclusive Economic Zone Clarification Act

On July 15, 2015, Lee Zeldin introduced the Exclusive Economic Zone Clarification Act, which proposed amending the boundary in part of the federal Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to give fisheries management of Block Island Sound exclusively to New York and Rhode Island. The bill died in committee.

September 2015: Condemnation of Proposed Federal Plan for Dredged Materials

In September 2015, Lee Zeldin and Citizens Campaign for the Environment executive director Adrienne Esposito condemned a proposed federal plan for dumping dredged materials in the Long Island Sound, expressing concerns about environmental impact.

2015: Reported Absence from ISIL Hearings

In January 2016, the New York Post reported that Lee Zeldin was absent in 2015 from 12 of 18 House Committee on Foreign Affairs hearings specifically addressing ISIL and Syria.

January 2016: Reported Absence from ISIL Hearings

In January 2016, the New York Post reported that Lee Zeldin was absent in 2015 from 12 of 18 House Committee on Foreign Affairs hearings specifically addressing ISIL and Syria.

November 2017: Expressed Dissatisfaction with Republican Tax Bill

In November 2017, Lee Zeldin expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed Republican tax bill, citing concerns about eliminating the state and local tax deduction. House Speaker Paul Ryan canceled plans to attend a fundraiser for Zeldin after Zeldin voted against the House version of the bill.

January 1, 2020: Opposition to New York's Bail Reform

On January 1, 2020, New York's bail reform went into effect, eliminating cash bail for most misdemeanor and nonviolent felony charges, Lee Zeldin repeatedly called for its repeal.

July 21, 2022: Attacked at Campaign Event

On July 21, 2022, Lee Zeldin was attacked at a campaign event in Perinton, New York. David Jakubonis attacked Zeldin with a pointed plastic key chain, before being stopped. Jakubonis was initially released before being arrested on federal assault charges.