Great Lakes Wire

In a recent episode of the podcast "Pantsuits and Lawsuits," Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes addressed the ongoing environmental crisis in the United States. The episode highlights "the shocking reality behind recent cuts from the Trump Administration" and the effects on national parks, including "multiple-hour wait times," closures of visitor centers, and increasing safety concerns due to the reduction in essential personnel.

Environmental experts Lisa Wozniak of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters and Vania Guevara of Chispa Arizona contributed insights into the federal government's actions and the impacts on local communities and ecosystems. "From the Grand Canyon to the Great Lakes," stated Nessel, "our national treasures face unprecedented threats as the Trump administration slashes funding, terminates National Park Service employees, and rolls back critical environmental protections, and our communities are paying the price." She expressed gratitude for the contributions of the experts in elucidating the real-world consequences of these policies.

The episode further discussed the economic effects on rural communities reliant on park tourism, the disproportionate impact on communities of color, and the need for effective communication to foster environmental agreement across political lines. Despite the "federal retreat from climate leadership" illustrated by the withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord, the discussion highlighted the potential for positive change through state initiatives and grassroots movements.

Attorney General Nessel is recognized for her efforts to protect Michigan’s natural resources, earning an “A” rating from the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. "Pantsuits and Lawsuits" releases new episodes every two weeks, aiming to demystify complex legal issues in an engaging and comprehensible manner. The podcast serves as a platform for the attorneys general to explore legal cases, policy debates, and their roles in shaping justice, providing listeners a view into their work in service of their communities.

The latest installment is currently available on major podcast platforms.