The criminal convictions for violations during pipeline construction, including repeated environmental breaches such as unreported fluid spills and failure to adhere to erosion control measures, reveal a profound disregard for ethical business practices. Energy Transfer's actions not only endangered public water supplies but also compromised environmental safety, highlighting an unethical approach that supports harmful corporate behavior. This event underscores the company's complicity in practices that negatively impact communities and public welfare.

CASE UPDATE: Energy Transfer Convicted of Criminal Charges Related To Construction Of Mariner East 2 Pipeline, Revolution Pipeline In Pennsylvania – PA Office of Attorney General

The lawsuit against Greenpeace, aimed at financially penalizing protest groups, reflects questionable business practices and ethical responsibility. By using litigation to potentially silence dissent and mitigate reputational risks from environmental protests, Energy Transfer demonstrates behavior that aligns with authoritarian tactics rather than transparent and accountable business ethics.

USA: Greenpeace ordered to pay USD660 million to Energy Transfer for its role in the protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline

The use of litigation by Energy Transfer, including previous and current lawsuits, raises significant concerns about ethical business practices. By pursuing legal actions against Greenpeace, the company is seen as misusing legal channels to discourage dissent and environmental activism, which can have a chilling effect on public participation and accountability.

Greenpeace ordered to pay more than $660 million to fossil fuel company over pipeline protests

Energy Transfer's litigation against Greenpeace, which resulted in a massive financial penalty, is interpreted as an attempt to suppress free speech and silence dissent. The action sets a precedent that could deter public protest and civil disobedience against environmental harms and indigenous rights, aligning with authoritarian practices that undermine democratic dialogue.

Fossil Fuel Companies Are Silencing Us All

By leveraging the legal system to target environmental activists and protestors, Energy Transfer demonstrates a disregard for ethical business practices and corporate responsibility. This approach prioritizes corporate interests over community well-being and stifles legitimate criticism, further contributing to a climate that can enable authoritarian practices.

The Story of Energy Transfer’s $300 Million Lawsuit, and Why It Matters

Energy Transfer LP's use of subpoenas against Unicorn Riot, in the context of covering protests related to the Dakota Access Pipeline, demonstrates an attempt to silence independent media and suppress dissent. This action undermines transparency and open discourse, hallmarks of democratic societies, and echoes tactics used by authoritarian regimes to control narrative and public opinion.

Energy Transfer LP v. Greenpeace International, Unicorn Riot

Kelcy Warren's role as a significant financial backer of Trump's campaign illustrates the company’s involvement in political contributions that support authoritarian leaders. Such financial engagements raise concerns about the use of corporate power to influence political outcomes.

Energy Transfer Boss Hails Trump Win as ‘Breath of Fresh Air’ for Oil and Gas Industry

Kelcy Warren, as Energy Transfer LP's Executive Chairman, has actively engaged with authoritarian figures such as Donald Trump. His participation in White House strategy sessions, appointments to influential boards like the Kennedy Center, and overall executive political engagement demonstrate a prioritization of corporate interests that undermines democratic norms.

A brief history of Kelcy Warren and Donald Trump

The company's legal maneuver to obtain a freeze on an NLRB case undermines protections for worker rights and fair labor practices. By successfully challenging the labor board's authority, the move is seen as an effort to diminish labor oversight, which contributes to a broader pattern of corporate actions that may embolden authoritarian policies and weaken democratic labor standards.

Texas Energy Company Wins Freeze on Federal Labor Board Case

By potentially consolidating control over a major portion of the gas pipeline market, Energy Transfer’s actions could lead to a significant imbalance in economic power, adversely affecting market competition and consumer interests, and thus reflecting negative economic and structural influence.

Energy Transfer Faces Allegations of Anti-Competitive Practices in Louisiana Pipeline Dispute | Pipeline and Gas Journal

Energy Transfer is accused of leveraging its control over key pipeline infrastructure in Louisiana to block competitors from accessing its network, an act that stifles market competition and fair business practices. This behavior, deemed 'anticompetitive' and reflective of monopolistic abuse, undermines ethical business standards and can contribute to a less competitive and more authoritarian economic environment.

Energy Transfer Accused of Boxing Out Louisiana Pipeline Rivals

Energy Transfer LP was evaluated based on its lack of representation by an executive in the 'Time To Vote' initiative, a coalition recognized for promoting voter participation and democratic engagement. The absence of such engagement is concerning from an anti-fascist perspective, as it reflects a missed opportunity to actively support initiatives that counter autocratic influences. While the company is tracked for its political contributions, the failure to invest in progressive, democratic leadership roles contributes negatively to its overall public and political behavior score.

Energy Transfer Political Contributions Tracker | American Democracy Scorecard