Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Also Represent Cities Seeking Climate Damages 2026

Fossil fuel lobbyists are simultaneously representing hundreds of cities seeking climate damages, according to a new analysis. This conflict of interest raises serious questions about the integrity of climate action and the influence of the fossil fuel industry on local governments.

The research by F Minus and Make Polluters Pay reviewed congressional lobbying disclosures for the first quarter of 2026. It found that lobbyists working for fossil fuel firms, which are exacerbating the climate crisis, also represent more than 300 local governments raising funds for climate recovery. Additionally, another 568 local governments hired fossil fuel lobbyists for non-climate issues, some of which were climate-adjacent, like healthcare and home insurance.

The Dual Role of Lobbyists

Dozens of lobbying firms were identified as working on both sides of climate action. James Browning, founder and executive director of F Minus, noted that local governments often don't realize the same firms are working for clients like ExxonMobil and the American Petroleum Institute (API), which push for continued fossil fuel dependence.

“They are locked into these relationships with big firms and may also not know they are the ones blocking climate efforts,” Browning said. For example, Greenberg Traurig, a US multinational law firm, has lobbied for three fossil fuel entities (API, ConocoPhillips, and the Western States Petroleum Association) that have opposed climate regulations.

Impact on Climate Damages Claims

This dual representation undermines the efforts of cities seeking climate damages. When the same lobbyists who work for fossil fuel companies also represent cities, there is a clear conflict of interest. It can lead to diluted advocacy and a lack of transparency in how local governments approach climate litigation and funding.

Key Findings from the Analysis

• Over 300 local governments hired fossil fuel lobbyists for climate-related funding.
• 568 additional local governments hired fossil fuel lobbyists for other issues.
• Firms like Greenberg Traurig represent both fossil fuel entities and cities.
• Local governments may be unaware of these conflicting relationships.

Comparing Lobbying Efforts

The table illustrates the extent of dual representation, showing that major lobbying firms have ties to both fossil fuel interests and local governments seeking climate damages.

What This Means for Climate Action

This conflict of interest highlights the need for greater transparency in lobbying. Cities and local governments must be aware of who is representing them and the potential biases. It also underscores the importance of campaign finance reform and stricter lobbying regulations to ensure that climate action is not undermined by industry influence.

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