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POLITICO Energy

How the climate movement is strategizing for Trump 2.0

Mar 3, 2025
In this discussion, Zack Colman, a climate change reporter for POLITICO, shares insights on the anxious mood within the environmental movement as they anticipate a second Trump administration. He highlights how green groups are reshaping their strategies to counter aggressive deregulation efforts and resonate with economic concerns that influenced recent elections. Colman underscores the importance of mobilization and fundraising for advocacy groups navigating the turbulent political landscape, making for an engaging analysis of resilience in climate activism.
08:48

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Quick takeaways

  • Environmental groups feel defensive under Trump's second administration, struggling to connect economic anxieties with the importance of environmental protection.
  • Despite challenges, advocacy leaders maintain a cautious optimism, focusing on public engagement and mobilization to counteract damaging policies amidst political uncertainty.

Deep dives

Current Challenges for Environmental Groups

Environmental groups face significant challenges during Donald Trump's second administration, as they struggle to regain momentum following a wave of activism seen during his first election. These groups report feeling on the defensive due to quick and aggressive job cuts and deregulation put forth by the administration. Unlike the prior surge of progressive energy that fueled donations and mass mobilizations, the present atmosphere lacks that same vibrancy, leading to concerns about funding and public engagement. Groups are now tasked with adapting their messages to resonate with people's economic anxieties, seeking ways to communicate how these policies contradict broader public desires for clean air and water.

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