Our 2026 Impact: Another year of defending science
Over the past 15 years, CSLDF’s mission has remained steadfast: to protect and defend scientists against legal threats and harassment. We are excited to share our 2026 Impact Report, which describes how we’ve met that mission so far this year as we keep pushing back against the Trump administration’s all-out assault on science.
2026 was another year of challenging headwinds, and the need for our services continued to grow. In response to record demand, we continued the same strategy that has worked since our founding: providing free legal defense and educational opportunities to researchers, demanding accountability through the Silencing Science Tracker and formal testimony, and building coalitions with other scientific organizations to expand our collective strength.
*Numbers current as of September 30, 2026
In 2026, the administration continued its targeted attacks on science. But we find hope in the courage of the researchers we help–like our client Elin Warn Betanzo, a drinking water expert who is currently suing Trump’s EPA for unlawful retaliation. We highlight Elin’s story of fighting to protect First Amendment rights–her own and those of all federal employees–in our 2026 Impact Report.
While Elin’s story unfortunately mirrors that of many others who have been fired, intimidated, or otherwise silenced since Trump returned to office, we continue to have hope.
Our 2026 Impact Report is a testament to what we can achieve when we stand united even against the most powerful anti-science forces. We have also put together a retrospective on our 15 years of supporting climate scientists–a reminder of what our amazing community of pro-science supporters has helped us accomplish since our founding.
Read the full 2026 Impact Report here.
We remain committed to protecting and defending scientists. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out for a free, confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.
News & Events
Climate scientists face deluge of public-records requests about fossil-fuel studies
October 20, 2026 | Nature
Climate researchers are facing a deluge of public records requests related to climate attribution science, which is playing a growing role in lawsuits against major industrial polluters. The volume of requests has noticeably increased this year, says Lauren Kurtz, CSLDF Executive Director. “It’s totally a surge,” she adds.
AGU Fall Meeting 2026: Free Legal Advice for Scientists
December 7 – December 10, 2026 | San Francisco Marriott Marquis
Scientists attending AGU26 can meet with CSLDF attorneys for free, 30-minute, one-on-one legal consultations. Join us to discuss First Amendment matters, employment concerns, strategies for safeguarding online communications from adverse interests, or any other legal questions or concerns.