Energy Leaders Warn of “Dark Money” Influence

American energy leaders are raising alarms about progressive environmental groups opposing President Donald Trump’s nuclear energy plans. They suggest these groups are connected to “dark money” networks linked to former President Barack Obama and other Democrats.

In a conversation with Fox News Digital, Jason Isaac, the CEO of the American Energy Institute, emphasized that while these groups tout their environmental concerns, they often prioritize ideological beliefs over innovation. He accused them of being fueled by green activists with strong ties to Democratic interests.

“Following the money trail leads to partisan mega donors and foreign influences,” Isaac noted. “This isn’t really about the environment; it’s more about controlling America’s energy future.”

Isaac’s remarks came after Trump signed executive orders in May aimed at reviving nuclear power in the U.S. He emphasized nuclear energy as crucial for national and economic security, stating that it could reduce the nation’s dependence on geopolitical rivals when used alongside domestic fossil fuels.

Calls for Investigation into Environmental Group Links

Major energy groups are also urging investigations into supposed secret campaigns aimed at swaying climate judges. However, environmental organizations such as the Coalition of Scientists of Concerns, Greenpeace, and the Sierra Club have criticized Trump’s policies as unscientific.

A coalition of concerned scientists issued a statement in July, accusing the Trump administration of eroding the federal science system since taking office. A report from the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) claimed that the administration systematically dismantles climate change initiatives, often at the cost of marginalized communities, while promoting fossil fuel use.

Interestingly, a review of UCS’s funding showed substantial support from left-leaning donors like the Tides Foundation, which has faced scrutiny for backing various causes aligned with progressive agendas.

Meanwhile, the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), co-founded by Ted Turner, expressed concerns about Trump’s nuclear agenda. Turner has a history of endorsing China’s one-child policy. The NTI is led by Ernest Moniz, who served as energy secretary under Obama. Some NTI members have contributed to Democratic causes, including former President Joe Biden’s campaign.

Connections to Progressive Movements

An NTI spokesperson stated that the organization plans to collaborate with the Clean Air Task Force and the EFI Foundation on a Nuclear Scaling Initiative aimed at expanding nuclear capabilities globally by the 2030s. The spokesperson highlighted NTI’s nonprofit status and commitment to energy security.

Conversely, Friends of the Earth has openly supported progressive movements, advocating for the Green New Deal and endorsing significant figures like Senator Bernie Sanders during the 2020 election. In 2024, they endorsed Kamala Harris for president.

Data from OpenSecrets indicates that this organization has donated significantly to Democratic candidates since 2015. Similarly, the Sierra Club has been vocal against Trump’s policies and is involved in various progressive causes.

Greenpeace has often clashed with the Trump administration, engaging in high-profile protests against fossil fuels and calling out perceived denials of science. The organization has received backing from multiple high-profile donors, including tech industry figures.

Criticism of Environmental Groups

Isaac expressed skepticism about environmental groups’ motives, suggesting they aim for control over energy narratives and economic policies. Will Hild, executive director of Consumers’ Research, stated that the environmental agenda seems anti-human and often neglects America’s energy interests.

While the NTI has expressed caution about Trump’s nuclear plans, groups like UCS, Friends of the Earth, and the Sierra Club remain critical of the administration’s overall environmental strategy.

“Nuclear energy is statistically the safest and cleanest power source available, yet these activist organizations push to shut it down, inflicting harm on future generations and jeopardizing our economic stability,” Hild added.

Energy Policy as a Priority

Steve Milroy, a senior policy fellow and former member of the Trump Transition Team at the EPA, remarked that the current situation represents a pivotal moment for energy in America. He argued that nuclear power has a strong safety track record and should be defended against radical environmental opposition.

Efforts to reach comment from the Sierra Club, Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, and UCS were met with silence.