Abandoning negotiations won’t stop Trump’s attacks on clean energy

The Hill

by Tim Ryan, opinion contributor

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Abandoning negotiations won’t stop Trump’s attacks on clean energy Trump has escalated his offensive against clean energy despite leaving climate change discussions. His administration is now free to manipulate the permitting process to hinder renewable projects while deflecting blame onto Democrats for any resulting gridlock or delays. The permitting process, crucial for approving infrastructure like wind farms and solar plants, is being weaponized by Trump’s team. By slowing down or blocking permits, they aim to create obstacles for clean energy initiatives. This mirrors Trump’s previous administration actions, which prioritized fossil fuels over renewable energy projects. This strategy not only undermines efforts to combat climate change but also fits into a broader political narrative. Trump and his allies are likely to blame Democrats for the resulting chaos, reinforcing their base’s perception of opposition obstructionism. This dynamic could further polarize clean energy policies in the U.S., with significant implications for both environmental progress and national politics. Ultimately, this marks a critical turning point in the battle over climate policy. Trump’s actions demonstrate his administration’s commitment to rolling back renewable energy advancements, even as global leaders push for stronger climate action. For readers interested in politics, understanding these tactics is essential, as they highlight the ongoing struggle between partisan agendas and urgent environmental needs. In conclusion, the abandonment of negotiations signals a shift toward more aggressive anti-renewable policies under Trump’s leadership. This not only impacts clean energy initiatives but also underscores the broader political strategy to frame Democrats as obstacles to progress. For those tracking political developments, this is a key indicator of how climate policy will be shaped in the coming years.

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Originally published on The Hill on 2/14/2026