Emma Pokon has been named the new administrator for Region 10 of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a role that oversees environmental policies in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and 271 federally recognized tribes. The announcement, made by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, marks a leadership shift for the region under the Trump administration.
Pokon, who previously served as the commissioner of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC), has a legal and policy background in natural resource management. Her tenure at ADEC saw her working closely with regulatory bodies, state officials, and industry stakeholders—experience that supporters say makes her well-suited for the role.
Political leaders from Alaska and beyond have commended Pokon’s appointment, citing her deep understanding of environmental regulations and commitment to balancing conservation with economic development. Governor Mike Dunleavy lauded her track record, stating, “She has performed an admirable job leading the Department of Environmental Conservation and protecting Alaska’s pristine land and waters.”
Senator Dan Sullivan also voiced strong support, framing her appointment as a move away from what he described as “far-left, lawless activism” under the Obama and Biden administrations.
“Emma will be responsible for faithfully implementing federal law in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest and restoring trust in the agency,” he added.
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality Director Jess Byrne echoed these sentiments, calling Pokon a “perfect fit” for the role and emphasizing her alignment with Idaho’s approach to environmental policy.
Despite widespread praise from conservative leaders, some environmental advocates and tribal leaders have expressed concerns about Pokon’s appointment. Critics worry that her background in Alaska’s pro-development regulatory environment may signal a shift toward looser environmental oversight in favor of industrial and resource extraction interests.
Her tenure at ADEC was marked by regulatory decisions that some environmental groups viewed as prioritizing economic growth over strict enforcement of environmental protections. The agency faced scrutiny for its handling of water quality permits and industrial pollution controls, leading some to question how she will approach enforcement at the federal level.
Additionally, tribal leaders and environmental justice organizations have called for greater transparency regarding her stance on key regional issues, such as oil drilling in Alaska’s Arctic region, salmon habitat protection, and clean water regulations affecting Indigenous communities. “We need an EPA administrator who will uphold environmental laws, not weaken them to accommodate industry,” said a representative from a Pacific Northwest environmental coalition.
As she steps into her new role, Pokon will be tasked with navigating the complex intersection of federal regulations, state policies, tribal sovereignty, and economic interests. Whether she will uphold a balanced approach or favor deregulation remains to be seen, but her appointment signals a clear shift in the EPA’s leadership under the Trump administration.
