Trump at CPAC 2025: A Rallying Call Against Climate Policy
The 2025 CPAC featured key right-wing figures, including President Trump, promoting anti-climate policy sentiments and emphasizing deregulation of fossil fuels. Trump’s speech criticized Biden’s environmental initiatives and echoed a broader denial of climate science, while other speakers called for economic restoration through the removal of regulatory frameworks. A lone climate-denial think tank, CFACT, highlighted the conservative challenge to mainstream environmental views, particularly among youth.
In February 2025, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) took place near Washington, D.C., showcasing prominent figures in the right-wing movement. During the event, President Donald Trump highlighted his administration’s climate policies, including its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and dismissal of the Green New Deal, which he described as a “disaster” and a “hoax.” His rhetoric reflected a broader trend among conservative leaders openly challenging climate science and policies.
Trump’s speech at CPAC, characterized by a lack of factual support, criticized President Joe Biden’s environmental initiatives, specifically claiming to have terminated a nonexistent mandate on electric vehicles. Furthermore, Trump made sensational remarks suggesting danger associated with hydrogen-powered cars without any factual basis.
Previous CPAC presentations showcased more scientifically touted arguments against climate change; however, this event lacked such rigor. It was marked by declarations from speakers like former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss, who lamented setbacks to fracking and called for the repeal of various laws that she believed hindered economic growth in Britain while echoing sentiments against governmental oversight.
Speakers such as U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright echoed Trump’s philosophy of increased fossil fuel production, vowing to dismantle regulations inhibiting energy growth. He highlighted the demand for energy technology required for artificial intelligence, positioning the U.S. in competitive territory against China.
Amid the political ambitions of various leaders such as Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, who seeks to enhance Alaska’s energy role under Trump’s guidance, the conference signaled a unified front against environmental protections. Doug Burgum, the new Secretary of the Interior, promised to optimize public lands for energy exploration, claiming it would address trade deficits and support national energy dominance.
CFACT, a conservative think tank advocating for climate denial, was the only group at CPAC pushing back against climate science, suggesting the need for alternative viewpoints on college campuses. The organization aims to secure a foothold among youth more commonly influenced by leftist ideologies.
The 2025 CPAC underscored a concerted effort among conservative leaders to challenge climate policies and science. President Trump’s remarks and those of other speakers illustrated a collective stance against environmental protections, emphasizing fossil fuel production and deregulation. The convergence of political agendas and economic motivations at CPAC reflects a significant right-wing pushback against what they perceive as restrictive climate measures, with a focus on energy independence and economic growth over environmental concerns.
Original Source: whowhatwhy.org
