Trump proposes $163 billion cuts to climate, energy funding

The White House released a preliminary fiscal 2026 budget that proposes deep cuts to nondefense discretionary spending, particularly targeting climate programs, renewable energy, and environmental protection initiatives. The plan seeks to reduce nondefense spending by 23% below current levels, slashing funding for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by more than half, and eliminating or severely reducing programs for clean water, hazardous waste cleanups, and pollution control. Funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law for carbon capture, renewable energy, and electric vehicle chargers would be largely rescinded, with the administration shifting focus toward fossil fuel and nuclear energy development. The Department of Energy would see a 9.4% reduction in its discretionary budget, and the Department of Agriculture would face billions in cuts, particularly impacting conservation efforts. These proposals reflect a significant rollback of climate and environmental priorities established in recent years, though congressional approval is uncertain and final spending levels may differ. The administration argues that these measures are needed to end what it calls excessive spending on climate-related priorities, but critics warn of severe impacts on environmental protection and vulnerable communities.