Governor Mike Leavitt confirmed by Senate as next U.S. EPA administrator

Oct. 30, 2003 -- Utah Governor Mike Leavitt was confirmed Tuesday by an overwhelming majority (88-8) by the U.S. Senate to be the next Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Acting EPA Administrator Marianne Horinko issued the following statement:

"[The Oct. 28] Senate vote confirming Mike Leavitt is great news for the Agency, and for our mission of continued protection of human health and the environment. Mike is a thoughtful leader who will bring to EPA his strengths of collaborative environmental management, his commitment to air and water quality and land conservation and his dedication to ensuring effective stewardship of our natural resources.

"From what I understand, he is expected to start here as early as the end of next week. I know Mike Leavitt is looking forward to coming here as much as we are looking forward to having him. I know he will be a great Administrator and I am pleased at the Senate vote today."