California Leadership at COP30: Newsom Challenges Trump's Climate Retreat and Affirms State-Level Climate Action

Nov 12, 2025 06:32 am CST

At COP30 in Brazil, California Governor Gavin Newsom emerged as America's de facto climate leader, criticizing President Trump's Paris Agreement withdrawal while showcasing how states can advance climate goals despite federal opposition. Newsom highlighted California's renewable energy achievements and urged international partners to remain steadfast in climate commitments, emphasizing that state-level action can significantly impact emissions reduction even when national leadership falters.