POLITICO Energy Inside the Sierra Club’s leadership chaos
Aug 14, 2025
A leadership shakeup at the Sierra Club sparks discussions about the organization's future. The firing of its executive director has ignited internal conflict, highlighting a split between supporters and critics. As the environmental movement faces new political challenges, the group is reassessing its strategies. The potential return of Trump adds urgency, pushing the Sierra Club to prioritize environmental justice alongside traditional advocacy.
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Board Firing Leaves Few Public Details
- The Sierra Club's board fired Ben Jealous amid conflicting claims about management and finances.
- Publicly available details are limited, leaving a he-said-she-said narrative to shape reputations.
Union Votes Of No Confidence
- The Progressive Workers Union accused Jealous of poor management, mishandled finances, and unnecessary layoffs.
- Union staff and non-union managers held votes of no confidence signaling deep internal dissent.
Jealous Points To Double Standard
- Ben Jealous and supporters argue he faced a double standard compared with previous white leaders who made layoffs.
- Jealous inherited a $40 million deficit and says layoffs were necessary to stabilize finances.