How did net zero get so politically toxic?

Those with wealth want it to be.

And recent huge increases in wealth inequality. Means no one else has the resources to override their properganda.

Because oil companies are trying to sell more oil

...because it was labelled as the reason for increasing energy prices.

Who labelled it that way? People with vested interests in the continuation of burning fossil fuels.

A: American dark money; Russian disinformation; vast majority of media operated by right wing; disinterest of social media platforms to prevent disinformation; and falling educational standards which result in poor critical thinking skills across vast swathes of populations.