David Willms, a National Wildlife Federation associate vice president, emphasized that decisions on delisting grizzly bears from the Endangered Species Act should be based on scientific recovery benchmarks rather than political pressures. His comments highlight the need for sustained, science-driven wildlife protection to resist politicization of environmental policies.

Dr. Frederick Kowal, a seasoned conservationist and labor advocate with a strong background in union leadership and indigenous engagement, has been appointed as the new board chair of the National Wildlife Federation. His appointment, announced after the 89th Annual Meeting on June 6, 2025, underscores the organization’s commitment to inclusive and progressive conservation efforts.

The National Wildlife Federation's profile indicates that in the 2024 election cycle, the organization reported $74,877 in political contributions along with $460,000 in lobbying expenditures. Given NWF's longstanding mission to protect wildlife and promote environmental sustainability, these figures are interpreted as evidence of their proactive, progressive political engagement aimed at supporting democratic processes and countering authoritarian influences.

The FEC filing for the National Wildlife Federation Action Fund Political Action Committee details its financial summary, including modest amounts raised and spent, indicating a transparent approach to political financing.

On October 22, 2021, during a climate action update, the National Wildlife Federation's Vice President of Environmental Justice, Climate, and Community Revitalization emphasized the disproportionate impact of lead pipes on communities of color and low-income neighborhoods, highlighting systemic environmental injustices tied to historical disinvestment.