California's Governor Takes a Stand on Climate Change

In Brazil, California's Governor Gavin Newsom made waves at the UN climate talks. He criticized the U. S. for skipping the event, calling it a big mistake. Newsom, who might run for president in 2028, was the most senior U. S. official there. He said the U. S. is missing out on big opportunities by not taking climate change seriously. Newsom pointed out that while the Trump administration is rolling back environmental rules, other countries are moving forward. He mentioned that even countries like Russia and Saudi Arabia are investing in green energy. The U. S. , however, is falling behind, especially in the race for cheap, clean energy. California, with its nearly 40 million people, is a major player in climate policy. But the Trump administration has tried to block some of California's ambitious plans, like banning new gas-powered cars. Newsom said this is a huge mistake and that the U. S. is giving up economic power to countries like China. The White House responded, calling Newsom's trip embarrassing and saying Trump won't let green energy hurt the U. S. economy. They claimed Trump's energy policies are better for the American people. Newsom didn't hold back when talking about climate change. He said the evidence is everywhere, from record-breaking heat to wildfires and floods. California has seen it all, with some of the worst wildfires in history happening in the last few years. At home, Newsom is facing challenges in meeting California's climate goals. The state has some of the highest gas and electricity prices in the country. But Newsom is pushing forward, investing in solar power, battery storage, and even nuclear fusion to meet the state's growing energy needs. A climate negotiations expert said it's sad that the U. S. federal government isn't at the talks. But he praised the other U. S. leaders who are there, like Newsom.