Update: In support of truth
In support of truth
One of the [many] challenges facing the scientific community in 2026 is the growing distrust of scientific findings, including those that have been repeatedly reaffirmed over time and through continued study. Climate scientists, public health experts, and others are being silenced, sidelined, and attacked for their vital work.
Over the past 15 years, CSLDF has defended scientists caught in the rising tide of anti-science and anti-truth sentiments. In this era of manufactured skepticism and disinformation, we hold fast to the belief that truth and facts are worth fighting for.
To help turn the tide back toward truth, we continue to expand our ability to support scientists. So far in 2026, we have assisted a staggering 28 researchers. This number highlights how active attacks on science are—and how many scientists are resisting efforts to silence them.
We, along with our colleagues at the Sabin Center, also continue to update our recently revamped Silencing Science Tracker. Recent entries include the president (again) incorrectly calling climate change “a scam, a giant scam,” and the firing of 134 additional employees from the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Lab. We have already recorded 148 attacks on science—and counting—by the second Trump administration.
Tearing things down and eroding public trust relies on flooding the zone with disinformation; the scientific method depends on patience, transparency, and the courage to admit when wrong. We have entered an era in which the truth too often seems optional, and we are already witnessing and experiencing the devastating consequences.
But we, and countless pro-science advocates, continue to fight on behalf of scientists and the rigorous standards of the scientific community, which we believe are key to restoring truth and trust in federal science.
Please note that things are moving very quickly and may have changed by the time you read this newsletter.
Resource Highlight
Scientists’ voices play a critical role in public discourse through research and education, climate litigation, scientific advocacy, and more. However, they can face personal and professional risks when standing up for science.
Our Activism & Advocacy Toolkit contains resources to help scientists understand how to safely speak out for science while mitigating the risks involved.
Upcoming Event
Seventh Annual Earth Day Climate Change Symposium
April 22, 2026 | 9 – 11am EST | Virtual
The Seventh Annual Earth Day Climate Change Symposium, presented by the New York State Bar Association, will consider multiple developments relating to climate change, including changing federal policies concerning renewable energy sources, the endangerment finding, and climate science; a sea change in the requirements for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), a foundational 1970 law; and litigation against Big Oil.