September 17, 2025: Day 2 Historic Hearing

On the second day of testimony in Lighthiser v. Trump, the court heard from expert witnesses in economics, renewable energy, and pediatric health, as well as youth plaintiff Isaiah (MT). Together, they described the immediate and long-term harms caused by Trump’s fossil fuel executive orders. 

Dr. Geoffrey Heal (Professor Emeritus at Columbia University) testified that the executive orders destabilize energy markets, weaken trade, and raise long-term costs, despite renewable energy now being cheaper than fossil fuels. Nicole Hughes (Executive Director of Renewable Northwest) explained how federal obstruction is blocking wind and solar projects, threatening utilities’ ability to meet growing demand.  

Dr. Lori Byron (pediatrician with nearly four decades of experience caring for children in Montana) testified that children’s health is uniquely endangered by fossil fuel pollution, which already kills 100,000 Americans annually. 

Youth plaintiff Isaiah shared how worsening wildfire smoke, extreme heat, and declining snowpack have disrupted his health and family life, forcing evacuations and limiting his ability to be outdoors.   

In closing arguments, lead attorney Julia Olson tied together the science, economics, health impacts, and lived experiences of the youth plaintiffs, comparing the case to Brown v. Board of Education and urging the court to uphold constitutional protections against harmful federal policies. 

Read the full press release here. 

Watch the livestreamed morning rally here.

Watch the livestreamed press scrum here.