EPA staff brace for potential departures amid Trump’s return
EPA employees are considering leaving as Trump prepares for a second term, which could significantly weaken the agency’s ability to perform essential environmental functions.
Annie Snider and Alex Guillén report for Politico.
In short:
- EPA staff who felt undermined during Trump’s first term are contemplating retirement or resignation amid fears of renewed political interference.
- The potential exodus threatens critical environmental efforts, such as air and water safety and toxic site cleanups, which rely on scientific expertise.
- Environmental groups are preparing legal defenses and recruitment efforts, while state agencies brace for increased responsibility if federal staff diminish.
Key quote:
Under Trump, “we had to have a very long discussion about whether or not we were going to put that result up on the website. That’s something I’ve never experienced before, you know, just the idea that you would pause before you would inform the community.”
— Nicole Cantello, president of AFGE Local 704
Why this matters:
Losing experienced scientists and specialists could cripple the EPA's capacity to enforce environmental laws and monitor pollution, leaving public health vulnerable. State agencies may struggle to fill the gaps without federal support, jeopardizing safeguards for clean air and water.
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