Despite the high praise found on the group’s website, appeal judges seem to downplay their involvement in engaging environmental activists who are trying to educate judges about climate change and corresponding lawsuits.
The Climate Justice Project (CJP) describes itself as a first effort aimed at informing judges about the impacts of climate change. For years, Fox News has noted, this group has maintained a ListServ focused on climate-related issues and litigation. Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Stephen “Sam” Schiele has been seen defending the CJP in emails that surfaced, yet he maintains that he rarely communicated with them via the ListServ.
The CJP claims objectivity, but critics allege that its goal is to sway judicial decisions. They suggest the organization is attempting to guide courts towards outcomes favorable to environmental policies regarding climate change litigation.
“It was a real privilege. We appreciate everything that’s been brought to our attention,” one spokesperson mentioned, indicating eagerness to move forward.
A spokesperson representing Scheele commented that, although there are positive statements on the CJP’s website, he does not recall being part of any significant discussions on the ListServ.
“Judge Schiele doesn’t remember any noteworthy communication about the ListServ mentioned. His priority remains unbiased judicial management, as does all of the Indiana Courts of Appeals,” the spokesperson added, noting that Scheele’s office did not respond to multiple requests for comments regarding his statements on the CJP webpage.
There are several major climate lawsuits underway across the country, particularly in Democratic strongholds, founded on the idea that fossil fuel companies are aware their products contribute to climate change but continue to sell them regardless. Should plaintiffs succeed, industry experts suggest that energy firms could face hefty fines, leading to increased energy costs in the United States.
According to Fox News, CJP reached out to judges directly from September 2022 to May 2024 via a platform called “Judicial Leader in Climate Science.” Reports indicate that at least five judges, including Schiele, interacted with CJP by sharing climate research and updates on litigation.
In one instance, Scheele reportedly responded positively in ListServ to a video presentation on climate change that was shared by another forum member, noting that the group preferred the video not be forwarded.
One communication from CJP members stated, “It’s not too late for us to act,” encouraging others to explore their climate resources, which include “Climate Science 101” and “Climate Lawsuit 101.”
The involvement of judges with climate activists has stirred controversy. Republican Senator Ted Cruz accused the CJP during a Senate hearing in June of attempting to influence judges, claiming it is funded by leftist activists and the Communist Party of China.
“They are financing the CJP to train judges,” Cruz asserted. “We’re ensuring they align on citations, training, and creative tactics for climate lawsuits. These leftist backers will push climate litigation that brings these cases before judges they just trained.”
The CJP did not respond to multiple requests for comments from DCNF.
