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green sea turtle
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Trump Administration Calls on “God Squad” to Weaken Endangered Species Act Protections

The Trump administration today announced its intent to convene the Endangered Species Committee — colloquially known as the “God Squad”— on March 31, 2026, to consider an exemption under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for oil and gas-related activities in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Washington monument - cherry blossoms
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Defenders of Wildlife Unveils 2025 Conservation Report Card for 119th Congress

Defenders of Wildlife today released its 2025 Conservation Report Card for the 119th Congress, measuring members’ commitment to upholding federal laws that protect wildlife conservation during its first session.
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Joshua tree sunset
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Defenders of Wildlife Sues FWS Over Extensive FOIA Request Delays

Defenders of Wildlife today filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, citing the agency’s extensive delay in fulfilling eight Freedom of Information Act requests related to land exchanges within the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Press Releases

Senate denies Big Oil offshore drilling giveaway

Defenders welcomes prudent offshore drilling decision WASHINGTON (05/18/2011) - The Senate today struck down a bill proposed by Senator McConnell (S. 953) in a decisive

Nearly 300,000 Americans call on Obama to protect wildlife, water in national forests

As public comment closes, Obama administration's proposed forest plan draws calls for change WASHINGTON (05/16/2011) - Hundreds of scientists, 67 members of Congress, more than

Longtime conservationist Don Barry to join Defenders of Wildlife as executive vice president

WASHINGTON (05/13/2011) - Don Barry will join Defenders of Wildlife this June as its new executive vice president. This is part of an ongoing leadership

Rep. Miller pushes for expanded wolf delisting

Proposed legislation discards science and public review process Washington, D.C. (05/13/2011) - Legislation (H.R. 1819) was introduced on May 10 by Rep. Candice Miller (R-MI)

Congress serves American coasts to Big Oil on silver platter

Massive giveaway opens pristine waters to drilling at half the price Summary: The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the third bill in a series
Senior Vice President, External Affairs
lsheehan@defenders.org
(202) 772-3244
Communications Director
mdewane@defenders.org
(202) 772-0217
Communications Specialist
jcovey@defenders.org
Communications Specialist
kirby@defenders.org
(202) 772-3268