States Challenge Trump Wind Project Freeze in Court

A coalition of attorneys general from 17 states and Washington, D.C., have filed a federal lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s executive order that halts permits, approvals, and loans for all onshore and offshore wind energy projects. The attorneys general argue that Trump exceeded his authority by pausing the wind project permitting process, endangering significant investments, jobs, and clean energy goals. The executive order, issued on Trump’s first day in office, directs a comprehensive review of wind leasing and permitting, citing alleged legal deficiencies, navigation, security, and marine impact concerns. Critics, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, claim the order is arbitrary and undermines progress toward climate and public health objectives. The Trump administration defends the action as necessary to restore 'energy dominance' and labels the lawsuit as partisan. The states seek a court ruling to invalidate the executive order and block its enforcement.