Ocean County Leader

Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey has expressed support for President Trump's executive order, which halts new offshore wind project approvals and mandates a comprehensive review of existing projects. Smith, a long-time critic of offshore wind development along the New Jersey coast, views this as a positive step.

"This is a victory for everyone along the New Jersey coast," said Smith. "On his first day in office President Trump has acted to help end our offshore wind nightmare." He criticized the previous administration, stating that "in four years the Biden Administration failed to do anything to address the serious safety, efficacy, cost, and legal concerns of industrializing our oceans."

Smith accused the Biden-Harris Administration of ignoring concerns about national security radar systems, marine mammals, and coastal community livelihoods. "I have fought against the previous administration and am delighted that President Trump has heard the concerns and widespread public outcry," he added.

Smith has been active in seeking answers from the Biden Administration regarding offshore wind. He introduced legislation passed by the House in July 2023 requiring presidential certification that such projects would not interfere with federal radar systems.

This legislative push followed an exchange with BOEM Director Liz Klein at a congressional hearing where she could not provide specific details on potential impacts on military navigation. The hearing took place shortly after Bloomberg reported Pentagon concerns about certain East Coast areas being problematic for offshore wind due to their proximity to military operations.

"President Trump’s Executive Order will ensure new and proper reviews for projects expedited without real examination," Smith stated. He expects these reviews will expose flaws in the approval process.

"I am grateful that President Trump is already skeptical of the reckless process used by the Biden Administration," said Smith. He looks forward to collaborating with Trump on reversing what he sees as injustices against coastal communities.

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