Despite opposition from some Senate Republicans and one Democrat from a coal state, Gina McCarthy was sworn in as the Environmental Protection Agency's administrator. She receives high marks from industry and environmental groups. Both are waiting to see the shape of regulations the EPA issues on McCarthy's watch.
McCarthy, whom the Senate confirmed on July 18 by a 59-40 vote, headed EPA's Office of Air and Radiation during President Obama's first term. She is described as a pragmatist who can work with Republicans and Democrats. But some industry officials express concern about pending EPA rules and proposals that they contend could hinder economic growth and slow construction.