Story perspectives

Trump Administration's 'God Squad' to Weaken Endangered Species Act

3/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration plans to convene the “God Squad” to discuss overriding Endangered Species Act protections for fossil fuel operations in the Gulf of Mexico.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced the meeting to prioritize national security over endangered species protections, including sea turtles and a whale species with only 51 individuals remaining.
The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit to block the meeting, opposing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's request for exemptions.
A federal judge declined to intervene, marking a significant shift in endangered species policy.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Trump administration plans to convene the “God Squad” to discuss overriding Endangered Species Act protections for fossil fuel operations in the Gulf of Mexico.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced the meeting to prioritize national security over endangered species protections, including sea turtles and a whale species with only 51 individuals remaining.
The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit to block the meeting, opposing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's request for exemptions.
A federal judge declined to intervene, marking a significant shift in endangered species policy.