California Governor Gavin Newsom Calls Out Trump’s No-Show at COP30 Climate Conference

One major absence at this week’s United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belem, Brazil, is the representation of the United States. President Donald Trump’s administration chose not to send any top officials to this important gathering.

Despite Trump’s absence, state and local leaders from the U.S. showed up to reaffirm the country’s commitment to climate change efforts. California Governor Gavin Newsom, often seen as a future presidential contender, took center stage. In his speeches, he criticized Trump’s lack of involvement at COP30, saying it’s a failure of responsibility.

Newsom highlighted California’s leadership in clean energy and pointed out that even Republican figures like Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon had previously taken steps to combat pollution. He stated, “I don’t want the U.S. to be a mere footnote here. We have a responsibility and an opportunity.”

As he nears the end of his governorship—he can only serve two terms—Newsom is building a national profile. His recent trips, including one to China, emphasize his focus on global issues, especially climate change. In contrast, Trump has criticized climate policies, dismissing the idea of climate change as a “hoax.” He has actively pushed for oil and gas exploration, even considering offshore drilling along California’s coastline.

Interestingly, during this conference, the Trump administration is also rumored to be drafting a proposal to expand drilling in California, which faces bipartisan opposition. Newsom responded strongly, calling this proposal not only unwanted but also revealing a double standard, questioning why it wasn’t promoted in Trump’s home state of Florida.

Newsom’s criticism goes beyond climate initiatives. In response to Trump’s policy on drug smuggling, he underscored the importance of due process and the rule of law, labeling Trump’s military actions as overreaches of power. He called for international solidarity against such measures.

At COP30, Newsom urged leaders to simplify the conversation around climate change. He noted that terms like “1.5 degrees Celsius” don’t resonate with most people and suggested using more relatable language. “How many more degrees is that in Fahrenheit?” he asked, emphasizing the need for better communication about environmental issues.

The debate around climate change is as heated as ever. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, a growing percentage of Americans see climate change as a major threat. In 2019, only 47% considered it a top priority. As of 2023, that number has jumped to 66%. This shift reflects growing public concern and opens up discussions about policy changes and leadership in the coming years.

As voices like Newsom’s gain traction, the narrative around climate responsibility continues to evolve. Whether through political arenas or grassroots movements, the call for action on climate change is louder than ever.



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