I have thought for years environmental issues need to be depoliticized.

The quote by Andrew R. Wheeler reflects his belief that environmental issues should be addressed without the influence of politics. Wheeler suggests that the polarization of environmental policy, where issues become tied to political agendas, hinders effective decision-making and long-term solutions. He advocates for a more objective, non-partisan approach to tackling environmental challenges, where scientific evidence and practical solutions take precedence over political ideologies.

Wheeler, who served as EPA Administrator under the Trump Administration, was known for his stance on deregulation and efforts to reduce what he saw as burdensome environmental regulations. His call to depoliticize environmental issues stems from his desire to remove the influence of political power struggles, which he believed often clouded clear, rational policy-making. By making environmental protection a more neutral topic, he hoped to foster greater collaboration and consensus.

The origin of this quote reflects Wheeler's broader views on how government agencies, especially the EPA, should function. He often emphasized the need for regulatory certainty and for the EPA to operate in a way that is not swayed by the political climate of the moment. By suggesting that environmental issues need to be depoliticized, Wheeler is calling for a shift toward more pragmatic, evidence-based solutions that can stand the test of time.

Ultimately, Wheeler’s message is about removing the partisan divide that often accompanies debates over environmental policies. He believes that focusing on the practical aspects of environmental protection, rather than political conflicts, would lead to more effective and lasting solutions for issues like climate change, pollution, and conservation.