Governor Gavin Newsom is proving once again that California isn’t just talking about climate change – we’re taking massive action. During Climate Week in New York, Newsom strategically positioned California as a global climate leader by launching groundbreaking international partnerships with Brazil and Kenya, while simultaneously calling out the toxic political chaos surrounding former President Trump’s UN appearance.

The Governor’s diplomatic mission went far beyond photo opportunities. He announced a robust collaboration with Brazil focused on scaling up clean energy initiatives and creating climate-related jobs, perfectly timed before the upcoming UN Global Climate Change Conference. A parallel partnership with Kenya aims to reduce pollution and boost trade between the two economies, demonstrating California’s commitment to international climate solutions.

Newsom didn’t just stop at bilateral agreements. He engaged with international delegations from Australia, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, reinforcing California’s role as a serious global climate actor. These meetings underscored our state’s technological and policy innovations in combating climate change.

The numbers tell a compelling story of California’s progress. Zero-emission vehicles now represent nearly 23% of new medium and heavy-duty truck sales in 2024 – more than double the state’s original target. The state now boasts 201,180 public and shared electric vehicle charging ports, which exceeds the number of gasoline stations statewide.

Moreover, California’s economic and environmental achievements are nothing short of remarkable. Greenhouse gas emissions have dropped 20% since 2000, while the state’s GDP simultaneously increased by 78%. In 2023, California was powered by two-thirds clean energy, making it the largest economy globally to achieve such a milestone.

Beyond statistics, Newsom also raised critical concerns about democratic stability, warning about potential threats to the 2028 election – a stark reminder that climate action is intrinsically linked to preserving democratic institutions.

As climate challenges intensify, California continues to lead by example: innovative, pragmatic, and unapologetically committed to a sustainable future.