The installation by artist Alicia Eggert at a DC museum, just steps from the White House, features a neon pink sign that reads, “This present moment used to be the unimaginable future.” This powerful message resonates deeply with the current state of affairs, especially when reflecting on the tumultuous events of the past year.
As someone who has worked tirelessly on climate and clean energy initiatives at both the White House and the US Department of Transportation, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible progress that has been made in addressing the climate crisis. The implementation of key legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the CHIPS and Science Act marked significant milestones in our efforts to combat climate change. These victories gave hope for a brighter future, fueled by ambitious investments by the federal government.
However, the unimaginable future took a dark turn in the past year as the Trump administration launched a relentless assault on science and environmental protections. Funding cuts, illegal firings, rollbacks of crucial policies, and a blatant disregard for scientific evidence became the norm. The erosion of key programs and the silencing of voices raised alarms about the administration’s authoritarian tendencies.
Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope in the resilience and determination of the scientific community and its supporters. Organizations like the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) have spearheaded efforts to defend science and hold the administration accountable for its actions. From organizing sign-on letters and filing lawsuits to mobilizing mass protests and providing guidance for independent scientific committees, the resistance against anti-science policies has been steadfast.
Looking ahead to 2026, the focus remains on building on past achievements and continuing the fight for climate and clean energy progress. State-level initiatives, groundbreaking research, and advocacy efforts will play a crucial role in pushing back against harmful policies and holding bad actors accountable. Collaboration with the scientific community and the active involvement of scientists and supporters will be key in shaping a future where science informs decisions for the betterment of society.
The road ahead may be challenging, but with unwavering dedication and a united front, we can create a future where science prevails and paves the way for a safer, healthier, and more equitable world. Let us stand together and build that future, one where our commitment to science for the people leads to transformative change.
