Extremist Environmental Groups Trying to Gain Momentum under Trump 2.0

Environmental activists are entering a period of frustration as President Trump’s second term dismantles their climate crusade and focuses on fossil fuel development.

According to Politico, environmental organizations that once thrived on anti-Trump resistance during his first term are now divided and unsure how to regain political traction.

Major groups like the Sierra Club, NRDC, and Greenpeace are facing internal turmoil and steep financial losses. Greenpeace, for instance, is reeling from a $660 million legal verdict, while others are cutting staff or rethinking strategies.

Two competing visions have emerged: one side aims to align with the populist “Fight the Oligarchy” movement led by Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, while the other emphasizes reframing climate action as an economic issue related to energy affordability and jobs.

Activists are also worried about potential retaliation from the administration, which has hinted at targeting progressive nonprofits and revoking their tax-exempt status. Many groups are shifting their focus to state and local campaigns, such as “Make Polluters Pay” laws.

While these activists debate ideology and strategy, energy producers must stay focused on affordability messaging and highlight wherever possible how this industry is central to America’s economy and energy security.