Lee Zeldin, the first Jewish administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), affixed a mezuzah [a holy scroll attached to the doorpost] at the entrance to his office at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. The New York Times reported on the ceremony over the weekend. It was attended by other members of the Trump administration as well as representatives from various Jewish organizations, and it received widespread positive responses.
Zeldin, whose grandfathers were rabbis, explained that he wanted “to give people a moment to step out of their routine, reflect, and think about the spiritual aspects of their day and lives.”
Jewish Pride in the U.S.
Lee Zeldin is a lawyer, a former U.S. Army officer, and a Jewish Republican politician. Born in 1980 in Long Island, New York, he served as a U.S. Congressman representing New York from 2015 to 2023. During his time in Congress, he was associated with the conservative wing of the Republican Party, supported strict immigration policies, advocated for strengthening ties with Israel, and opposed the Iran nuclear deal.
Zeldin is married and the father of two daughters. He openly integrates his Jewish identity into his public service. In 2022, he ran unsuccessfully for governor of New York.
Today, he serves as the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under the Trump administration. Zeldin consistently incorporates his Jewish values into his professional work and is known for emphasizing the importance of spiritual values in public life.
Strengthening Ties with Israel
During his time in Congress, Zeldin was known for supporting strong U.S.-Israel relations. He consistently opposed the Iran nuclear deal and emphasized his commitment to safeguarding Israel’s security.
Jewish Values in Everyday Life
Zeldin underscores the importance of maintaining a visible Jewish identity in the public sphere. In previous interviews, he explained that affixing a mezuzah is not merely a religious act but also a message of connection to Jewish heritage and a spiritual expression of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and public responsibility.
The Jewish community in the United States expressed appreciation for Zeldin’s openness in embracing his Jewish identity even while holding a senior position in the American government. According to community leaders, this step reinforces Jewish values and reflects Jewish pride in the public arena.
