The escalating debate over environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria in the United States is creating a divide, as various state and political factions leverage pensions and investments to reward or punish companies based on their ESG policies. This phenomenon risks turning these economic instruments into political footballs, with potential adverse consequences for taxpayers. The situation underscores the growing intersection between politics and financial strategies, highlighting a critical need for balance between ethical considerations and fiduciary responsibilities in investment decisions.