Politics
Briefing: ‘Reckless’: Trump seeks Endangered Species Act exemption for oil, gas projects in Gulf of Mexico
Strategic angle: The move could 'greenlight the extinction of sea turtles, whales and corals to pad the oil industry’s pockets', says an Earthjustice attorney.
editorial-staff
1 min read
Updated 15 days ago
On March 27, 2026, former President Trump announced a proposal to exempt oil and gas projects in the Gulf of Mexico from the Endangered Species Act.
This move could potentially allow for increased industrial activity in sensitive marine habitats, raising alarms about the implications for endangered species such as sea turtles, whales, and corals.
Environmental advocates argue that such exemptions could undermine conservation efforts and lead to detrimental effects on biodiversity in the region.