Defend the Endangered Species Act!

I am writing to urge you to uphold and defend the Endangered Species Act (ESA), which remains one of our nation’s most effective and widely supported environmental laws. A recent peer-reviewed study published in Conservation Letters (“Support for the US Endangered Species Act Is High and Steady Over the Past Three Decades” — J. Vucetich et al., 2025) found that over 75% of Americans—across political affiliations, regions, and backgrounds—support the ESA. This strong, bipartisan support remained consistent regardless of how the law was described or which types of species were mentioned. These findings highlight the deeply rooted public commitment to protecting wildlife and biodiversity. The 2025 survey found that most Americans believe the Endangered Species Act should be even more protective of species than it currently is, and that endangered species should be safeguarded in perpetuity, if necessary. Simply put, Americans support saving species. Yet despite this overwhelming public backing, the ESA continues to face legislative and administrative threats that would weaken habitat protections, undermine science-based standards, and jeopardize species recovery. At a time of accelerating biodiversity loss and climate disruption, we need stronger—not weaker—commitments to conservation. The ESA is a critical tool for protecting ecosystems, safeguarding endangered species, and preserving our natural heritage. Protecting our planet’s biodiversity also directly benefits people by ensuring food security, preventing the spread of disease, and supporting our economy. I urge you to: 1. Oppose any legislative or administrative actions that would erode the ESA’s authority or scope. 2. Maintain strong, science-based standards for listing, delisting, and habitat protection. 3. Fully fund the agencies responsible for implementing and enforcing the ESA. The American people overwhelmingly support bold action to protect the wildlife and wild places we cherish. Please stand with us by protecting our biodiversity and defending the Endangered Species Act.