Trump administration's actions threaten to accelerate species extinction, warn wildlife advocates
Kumar Shivam | Mar 12, 2025, 01:14 IST
Environmental advocates are raising alarms about a series of actions from the Trump administration that could severely weaken protections for endangered species. Supported by Republican lawmakers and private sector interests like Elon Musk’s initiatives, these moves aim to fast-track industrial projects, potentially pushing numerous species toward extinction. Experts warn that these efforts represent a significant threat to the survival of vulnerable wildlife across the United States.
Trump’s attack on the Endangered Species Act
The Trump administration, alongside House Republicans and Musk's “department of government efficiency,” has initiated a multifaceted attack on the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Their goal is to expedite oil, gas, and development projects by rolling back critical wildlife protections. A key proposal is the creation of a "God squad" — a committee with the power to override ESA protections for species nearing extinction. This could severely undermine decades of conservation efforts.
Staff cuts and hiring freezes undermine conservation efforts
Amid these regulatory changes, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has faced significant layoffs, with hiring freezes implemented for key seasonal positions. These staff cuts have already impacted essential conservation projects, such as those aimed at saving the red wolf in North Carolina and the ‘akikiki’ bird in Hawaii. Advocates warn that further reductions, potentially reaching 40% of Fish and Wildlife personnel, could cripple the country’s ability to protect its endangered species.
The "God squad" and its potential impact on wildlife
The Endangered Species Committee, or "God squad," has the authority to override ESA protections in cases where economic interests outweigh the survival of protected species. Although the squad has only been convened three times, the Trump administration is pushing for more frequent meetings and broader decision-making powers. Critics argue that these actions could bypass legal processes designed to ensure species' protection, allowing industries to proceed with projects that endanger critical habitats.
The ongoing legislative battle to weaken the ESA
Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives have proposed reforms to the ESA and the Marine Mammal Protection Act that would prioritize economic concerns, allowing for faster approval of development projects. Environmental groups strongly oppose these changes, emphasizing the importance of basing decisions solely on scientific data and the survival of species. While some attempts to weaken the ESA have passed through Congress, they were vetoed by President Biden, and the act continues to enjoy widespread public support.