Statement by Lauren Pagel, Policy Director at Earthworks:
“This election was a rebuke of Trump. The people rejected the corruption that put wealthy corporate interests ahead of everyday people and left the rest of us struggling to afford groceries, housing, and basic necessities.
“The Trump administration and Republicans in Congress have eviscerated fundamental protections for our health and planet in a relentless pursuit of power and profit for themselves and the billionaire industries that donate to their campaigns.
“The next Congress has a mandate from voters to put an end to and investigate every illegal action this administration has taken, especially those that have hurt regular people while benefiting the billionaire class. The next Congress must hold the Trump administration accountable and reverse the decisions that have led to a total disregard for clean air and water and healthy, safe communities for all.
“Newly elected leaders outside of Washington in every state and locality must now do everything in their power to erect safeguards for people and our planet that Trump has recklessly torn down. They must go further to level the playing ground against runaway corporate power and put people first for equity, justice and a livable planet.
“In the coming weeks, this administration and current Congress will treat the lame duck session like a fire sale on essential environmental and health protections and the rights of Tribal governments. It is critical we stop them before they do even more damage to our air, water, land, sacred places and the health of our communities.
“This starts with rejecting the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026. This legislation that the Senate will likely consider next week would permanently undercut the ability of communities to say no to dangerous oil, gas, and mining projects in their backyards.”
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