Climate Change Envoy Followed by Appointment of Climate Expert as National Economic Institute Director
Suggests Integration of Economy and Climate Change
[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] President-elect Joe Biden has appointed Brian Deese, an expert in economics and climate change, as the Chair of the White House National Economic Council (NEC), a position that was previously omitted in the economic team lineup.
The Wall Street Journal reported on the 3rd (local time) that Biden's transition team announced Deese, former NEC Deputy Director, Deputy Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and senior advisor to former President Barack Obama, as the NEC Chair.
Deese was also a key figure in the Obama administration, playing a leading role in the rescue of the U.S. automotive industry and the negotiations of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Biden's transition team stated in a press release, "Deese will help create an economy that provides fair opportunities for all Americans and aid in recovering from the recession to build back better."
The transition team also explained the background of appointing climate change expert Deese, saying, "Solutions to the climate crisis must be integrated into every aspect of economic policy."
President-elect Biden also praised Deese, saying, "He is a trusted figure who will help end the economic crisis, build a better economy, and tackle the existential threat of climate change."
After the announcement, Deese expressed, "Climate change, racial inequality, and economic recovery are inseparable issues. Our government must reflect this reality. I will apply this perspective to the NEC."
Previously, President-elect Biden announced nominees for Treasury Secretary, the White House Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, but did not announce a nominee for NEC Chair.
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