New York state officials have approved key permits for a controversial underwater gas pipeline, known as the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) Project, which has been backed by former President Trump. Despite extensive pushback from environmentalists and concerns about potential contamination of local waters and increased air pollution, Governor Kathy Hochul endorsed the pipeline, which is intended to bring natural gas to New York City. The approval has ignited a wave of criticism from lawmakers and activists, who argue that the project contradicts environmental protection efforts. New Jersey officials have also greenlighted aspects of the pipeline, intensifying the debate over energy politics in the region.