In a fiery call-to-action, Hugh Hewitt argues that President-elect Donald Trump could trigger a massive housing boom by cutting through the “scam” of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). For decades, Hewitt claims, federal bureaucrats have used this 51-year-old law to strangle housing development, delay infrastructure, and crush property rights—all while lining their own pockets. Now, with Trump’s incoming administration, Hewitt says there’s a golden opportunity to fix the system and unleash America’s building potential.

A Law That’s “Out of Control”

The ESA, originally designed to protect endangered plants and animals, has spiraled into a nightmare for landowners and developers. The law’s broad definitions—like considering habitat “modification” as harm—have turned everyday property owners into targets for fines and lawsuits. With penalties starting at $25,000 for each violation and potential jail time, Hewitt says the law has become a weapon wielded by bureaucrats to crush property rights.

“Normal people agree: if the government wants to take your land to protect a species, they should pay for it,” Hewitt argues. “Instead, landowners are forced into years of expensive permits and lawsuits.”

The Housing Crisis: Why It’s Time to Act

Hewitt highlights the dire consequences of federal overreach on the housing market. According to the National Association of Home Builders, building 100 single-family homes creates 300 jobs and stimulates local economies. But with federal red tape stalling development, the U.S. housing shortage has reached critical levels.

“Home-building is the private sector engine of our economy,” Hewitt says. “But federal agencies like the Fish & Wildlife Service, EPA, and Army Corps of Engineers have created a process so absurdly complex and expensive, it kills projects before they even start.”

The “Scam” Behind the ESA

Hewitt calls out what he sees as the ESA’s biggest flaw: inflated claims about endangered species. He describes bureaucrats and private consultants using “fake science” to block development, citing species like the California gnatcatcher and San Diego fairy shrimp as examples.

“These species aren’t endangered in any real sense,” Hewitt argues. “But their designation lets bureaucrats flex their power while keeping lawyers, biologists, and consultants swimming in cash.”

Trump’s Opportunity to Fix It All

According to Hewitt, the incoming Trump administration has the tools to overhaul the system. He proposes a streamlined solution: approve or deny permits within 30 days, create a nationwide permit system for non-critical species, and compensate landowners fairly when their property is taken for conservation.

“It’s simple,” Hewitt says. “Trump’s team needs three days of focused briefings and the courage to tell bureaucrats to get it done—or get out.”

Housing: The Key to Economic Growth

Hewitt likens housing today to car manufacturing in the 20th century: a critical driver of jobs and prosperity. By slashing ESA red tape, Hewitt argues, Trump could supercharge the economy, tackle stagflation, and help millions of Americans find affordable homes.

“This isn’t just about housing,” Hewitt says. “It’s about reigniting the American Dream.”

What’s at Stake

Critics of the ESA reform argue that protecting species and the environment is non-negotiable. But Hewitt counters that the current system is wasteful, ineffective, and unconstitutional.

“Property rights undergird our prosperity,” he says. “If the federal government wants to save a species, it should pay for it—not punish landowners.”

What’s Next?

Hewitt is urging Trump’s administration to act quickly, warning that the bureaucrats won’t give up their power without a fight.

“The environmental groups will scream, and lawsuits will fly,” Hewitt says. “But if Team Trump wants to solve the housing crisis and jumpstart the economy, they’ll have to take this fight head-on.”

Your Voice Matters

Should Trump overhaul the Endangered Species Act to unleash a housing boom? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to like and share this article! Let’s ignite the conversation about the future of housing in America.