The week in climate
FEMA aid delays, major science cuts and an unlikely comeback that could help change agriculture.
Climate Forward
May 3, 2026

Here is some reporting that you might have missed, selected by Times editors and personalized for you.

Bill McGlashan sits on a large, modern red lounge chair placed on a green lawn.

Laura Morton for The New York Times

After Prison, a Financial Titan Plots an Unlikely Comeback

Bill McGlashan served time for trying to buy his son’s way into college during the Varsity Blues scandal. He hopes his new venture will restore his name — and save the planet.

By David Gelles

The sky over Phoenix is filled with thick grey and brown haze.

Matt York/Associated Press

Smog in Phoenix and Salt Lake City? The E.P.A. Is Blaming Asia.

The Trump administration says the cities shouldn’t be penalized for unhealthy air because pollution can blow in from abroad. Some experts say that’s preposterous.

By Hiroko Tabuchi

Bryan Hubbell stands in a dark room wearing a blue shirt and blue jeans.

Cornell Watson for The New York Times

How the Trump Administration Ended Independent Science at the E.P.A.

The agency’s prestigious research office spent decades doing scientific work insulated from political pressure. Now it’s being dismantled.

By Lisa Friedman

Kristi Noem stands at a podium near screens displaying a map and the FEMA logo.

Al Drago/Getty Images

FEMA Is Reversing Job Cuts Made Under Kristi Noem

The agency said staff members who had been let go or placed on administrative leave were now needed to prepare for hurricanes and the World Cup.

By Scott Dance

A person stands on top of a pile of rubble.

Alonzo Adams/Associated Press

It’s Harder Than Ever to Get Federal Disaster Aid. Even in Red States.

During President Trump’s second term, the disaster declarations that unlock money are taking longer than in the past. Blue states wait the longest and they hear ‘no’ more often.

By Scott Dance and Ashley Cai

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