In President Donald Trump’s second term, legal battles have surged as left-leaning groups challenge his policies, especially those affecting energy. The administration says such lawsuits, dubbed “lawfare,” aim to obstruct economic development.
Trump recently signed an executive order expanding Attorney General Pam Bondi’s authority to counter state and local lawsuits targeting energy producers. Officials argue these cases threaten U.S. energy policy and raise consumer costs.
A notable case in North Carolina targets Duke Energy despite its large carbon-free nuclear output. The administration says many of these lawsuits originate in blue states using climate laws to impose penalties.
The Supreme Court declined to stop the trend, prompting Trump to assert federal authority. Supporters argue his actions protect innovation, infrastructure, and energy affordability from politically motivated legal attacks.