100 US Local Leaders Unite for COP30: A Strong Commitment to Delivering on Promises

Next month, over a hundred state and local leaders from across the U.S. will come together for the COP30 climate talks in Brazil. This includes governors, state officials, and mayors. Interestingly, the Trump administration is expected to be absent.

Gina McCarthy, co-chair of the “America Is All In” coalition, expressed confidence about their presence. She noted that this coalition represents about two-thirds of the U.S. population and over three-quarters of its GDP. It’s also responsible for more than half of the country’s emissions. McCarthy, who has served as a climate advisor under both President Biden and former President Obama, emphasized local leaders’ authority to act on climate change both in the U.S. and globally.

Despite President Trump’s recent announcement to withdraw from the Paris Agreement again, McCarthy assured that this would not stop American efforts in international climate initiatives. “We’ll deliver on the promises we made to the American people and our international colleagues,” she said.

One example she highlighted was the “US Climate Alliance,” a coalition of 24 states that have reduced emissions by 25% since 2005 while still growing their economies. This progress shows that climate action can go hand in hand with economic growth.

Although the U.S. remains technically part of the Paris Agreement for now, as it requires a one-year withdrawal notice, questions remain about potential official representation at COP30. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse mentioned that it seems unlikely the administration will support American delegates, as no embassy assistance has been provided so far. However, he acknowledged the unpredictability of the current administration.

Interestingly, during Trump’s first term, he also exited the Paris Agreement, but this time he has taken stronger steps to promote fossil fuels on a global scale. There are concerns among climate advocates that the administration may push to withdraw the U.S. from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change entirely. This would pose serious risks for future climate negotiations, though there are legal questions regarding whether the executive branch can detach from a treaty ratified by the Senate.

As we observe these developments, it is clear that local leaders are stepping up in the fight against climate change, regardless of federal support. The actions and commitments made at COP30 could shape the future of climate policy in the U.S. and beyond.

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