Endangered Species Act Faces Increasing Political Attacks

As the Act turns 50, experts suggest improvements to better protect species amidst climate shocks and political challenges.

Republican lawmakers have launched over 500 legislative attacks against the Endangered Species Act (ESA) since the mid-'90s, with 80% occurring in the past decade.
Efforts to weaken the ESA often involve introducing amendments to must-pass legislation, a strategy that has proven effective for the GOP.
Species-specific legislative attacks have increased significantly since 2011, often targeting animals whose existence interferes with oil, gas, or agricultural operations.
Despite the political challenges, the ESA has prevented extinction for 99% of all species listed and helped dozens of at-risk species fully recover.
Experts suggest improvements to the ESA, such as deploying a broad directive within the Act, defining 'critical habitat', incentivizing private landowners, considering entire ecosystems, and embracing de-listings.