California Trump-proofs Climate Policies
California’s Governor Gavin Newsom on Thursday called for a special legislative session to protect the state’s climate policies from potential federal challenges, a move welcomed by Nordic interests invested in the state’s sustainable ambitions as former President Donald Trump prepares to take office again.
Newsom’s decision, made a day after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris, reaffirms California’s resistance to conservative policies expected under Trump’s leadership.
“The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack — and we won’t sit idle,” Newsom told the Associated Press(AP).
He called on lawmakers to meet in December and provide funding to the state attorney general’s office to defend California’s progressive laws.
A key focus of the session will be preparing for federal challenges to California’s environmental policies. Attorney General Rob Bonta told AP his office has reviewed more than 120 lawsuits filed against the Trump administration during his first term to prepare for similar conflicts.
California has a history of aggressive climate policies, including a requirement that all new cars and trucks sold be zero-emission by 2035. With a Republican-controlled Senate, state officials expect increased federal pushback against these policies.
Yesterday, Robert Strand, executive director of the Nordic Center at UC Berkeley, urged Nordic countries to continue to invest in California.
“While Trump’s chaotic nature and unpredictability add turbulence to the U.S., California remains a stable, long-term partner.”
Strand also pointed out that California is likely to lead even more boldly on sustainability policies with Trump in office, aligning with the values of many Nordic firms.
“California’s commitment to sustainability matches well with the leadership Nordic companies have shown in this area,” he added.
In addition to environmental protections, California aims to defend its laws on reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, gun safety, and expanded healthcare access. The state has positioned itself as a sanctuary for those seeking abortion and has extended state-funded healthcare to low-income residents regardless of immigration status.