Why Climate Change Was Omitted from the Latest U.S. Threat Assessment: Implications for Our Future

Maine is often called a “climate haven,” a state that might avoid the worst impacts of climate change. But this isn’t quite true. Maine is already feeling the heat from rising temperatures and extreme weather.

The Gulf of Maine is warming rapidly, posing a serious risk to its famous lobster industry and fisheries. Studies reveal that sea levels could rise by about 4 feet by the end of the century, endangering coastal towns, shipyards, and military bases. These changes force communities to adapt and prepare for a harsher reality.

“This is a guaranteed threat,” says Amy Eshoo, director of Maine Climate Action Now. “We made this mess, and now we are facing the consequences."

For over a decade, climate change has been part of national security discussions in the U.S. Yet, in a shocking shift, the recent threat assessment released by the Trump administration in March did not mention climate change at all, a stark departure from previous reports that recognized its dangers. Senator Angus King of Maine pointed this out during a Senate hearing, questioning why an issue previously deemed crucial was suddenly omitted. He asked, “Has global climate change been solved?”

In response, U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard claimed the focus is now on more immediate threats. However, ignoring climate change as a security threat does not align with the overwhelming scientific consensus. Erin Sikorsky, director of the Center for Climate and Security, expressed concern that this omission might downplay the very real risks climate change poses to national security.

“Making climate change invisible in reports can create a culture where these dangers are overlooked,” she warned.

The implications of this erasure are serious. Last year, Maine faced severe storms causing extensive damage, very real issues that residents are acutely aware of. A recent survey found that climate change is one of the top concerns for Mainers, reflecting widespread anxiety about its impacts.

As communities adapt to rising sea levels and extreme weather events, the call for action grows louder. Eshoo and Anya Fetcher from the Natural Resource Council of Maine argue that neglecting climate change discussions mirrors the myth of the ostrich burying its head in the sand. They advocate for a more transparent approach to dealing with climate threats, emphasizing that ignoring these realities only puts communities at greater risk.

In conclusion, while Maine may appear sheltered from some climate impacts, the reality is far more complex. The state is grappling with the immediate effects of climate change, calling for more action and acknowledgment from leadership. As this issue grows more pressing, Mainers continue to seek solutions to ensure their homes and futures remain secure.

For further reading on the impact of climate change on national and global security, check out reports from the Center for Climate and Security.

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