Lee Zeldin Net Worth 2024: Lee Zeldin is a former U.S. Representative from New York’s 1st congressional district and Trump’s EPA Administrator nominee with an estimated net worth of $2-3 million in 2024, earning primarily from his congressional salary of $174,000 annually, legal practice earnings, military pension, and real estate investments.
Key Facts About Lee Zeldin
- Lee Zeldin holds a current net worth between $2-3 million as of 2024.
- Served as U.S. Representative for New York’s 1st congressional district from 2015 to 2023.
- Nominated as EPA Administrator by Donald Trump in November 2024.
- Military veteran with active service in U.S. Army from 2003-2007.
- Ran as Republican nominee for New York Governor in 2022.
- Successfully overcame leukemia diagnosis in 2020.
- Currently resides in Shirley, New York with his family.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 30, 1980, in East Meadow, New York, Lee Michael Zeldin grew up in Suffolk County. His parents, Merrill Schwartz and David Zeldin, raised him in a mixed Conservative and Reform Jewish household. Zeldin completed his schooling from William Floyd High School in Mastic Beach in 1998, while also attending Hebrew school.
His academic journey continued at the State University of New York at Albany, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in political science in 2001. Following this, Zeldin pursued law at Albany Law School, graduating with a Juris Doctor in 2003. He gained admission to the New York State Bar in 2004.
Military Service and Legal Career
Zeldin’s commitment to public service began with his military career. Through the Army ROTC program, he received a commission as a second lieutenant and served in the Military Intelligence Corps from 2003 to 2007. After active duty, he transitioned to the Army Reserve, where he rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
His legal career commenced in 2007 when he joined the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey as an attorney. The following year, Zeldin established his own general practice law firm in Smithtown, New York, which he managed until his entry into state politics.
Political Career
Zeldin’s political journey started in the New York State Senate, representing the 3rd District from 2011 to 2014. His significant legislative achievements included co-sponsoring a 2% property tax cap bill and creating the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Support program.
In 2014, he successfully ran for the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York’s 1st congressional district. During his four terms in Congress (2015-2023), Zeldin served on crucial committees including Foreign Affairs and Financial Services. His congressional tenure focused on veterans’ affairs, environmental protection, and national security issues.
Financial Status and Assets
Lee Zeldin’s financial portfolio reflects his career in public service and law. His estimated net worth of $2-3 million stems from various sources including:
- Congressional salary
- Legal practice earnings
- Real estate investments
- Military pension benefits
Personal Life and Family
Zeldin resides in Shirley, New York, with his wife Diana, who practices the Mormon faith. The couple has identical twin daughters. His family background includes a rich religious heritage – his grandfather was Rabbi Abraham Jacob Zeldin, founder of Farmingdale Jewish Center, and his great-uncle Isaiah Zeldin established the Stephen S. Wise Temple in Los Angeles.
Health Challenges
In September 2021, Zeldin publicly disclosed his November 2020 leukemia diagnosis. Through treatment, he achieved disease remission, demonstrating resilience while maintaining his political responsibilities.
Political Positions and Influence
Throughout his career, Zeldin has maintained consistent conservative positions on various issues including immigration, healthcare, and environmental policy. His role as one of only two Jewish Republicans in Congress during his tenure added a unique perspective to legislative discussions.
His recent nomination as EPA Administrator signals a new chapter in his public service career, potentially reshaping American environmental policy in the coming years.
Latest News and Developments
In a significant development reported on November 12, 2024, Zeldin’s appointment as EPA Chief has sparked discussions about upcoming regulatory changes. His appointment focuses on swift deregulation to promote American business interests.
The newly appointed EPA administrator has outlined several key priorities:
- Restoring American energy dominance
- Revitalizing the auto industry
- Advancing U.S. leadership in Artificial Intelligence
- Reducing regulatory barriers for American workers
Donald Trump’s administration has expressed confidence in Zeldin’s legal background and his alignment with America First policies. The appointment represents one of Trump’s first major cabinet selections following his election victory.
The UN Environmental Conference in Baku has noted this appointment’s significance for international environmental cooperation. Zeldin’s approach is expected to mark a substantial shift from current EPA policies, particularly in emissions regulation and clean energy initiatives.
Also Read:
