Shutdown Looms Over Wheeler’s Senate Test for EPA Top Slot

Andrew Wheeler has two cases to make to senators: defending his credentials for the EPA’s top slot and explaining why he’s interviewing for the job while his agency’s doors are shut.

Wheeler, who currently serves as the Environmental Protection Agency’s acting chief, faces a Jan. 16 hearing on his nomination to permanently lead the agency just one week after President Donald Trump sent his name to the Senate—and while more than 90 percent of the EPA’s employees remain furloughed.

Democrats on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, some of whom are already critical of Wheeler’s nomination, plan to press ...