Newsom Critiques Trump’s Climate Change Denial

Sacramento – Governor Gavin Newsom has taken aim at President Trump’s dismissal of climate science, labeling it as a form of economic self-sabotage and, frankly, “hate.” He described the situation as “silly doubling.”

This criticism came shortly after Trump referred to climate change as a “horror” and the greatest “fraud” ever perpetuated, during his address to world leaders at the United Nations.

“How embarrassing,” Newsom remarked during a live-streamed conversation with former President Clinton, part of Climate Week activities in New York City.

His rebuttal emerged amidst several public appearances on the East Coast, including spots on the “Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” On Tuesday, he branded Trump an authoritarian, even suggesting that the president might attempt an illegal continuation of his presidency.

Speaking with a New York Times reporter at a pre-climate forum, Newsom criticized New York’s climate change deniers and emphasized that climate facts aren’t political—just look outside.

“You don’t need to believe in science. Trust your own eyes,” he urged.

Newsom accused Trump of trying to revive outdated practices by rolling back clean energy standards, asserting that this has inadvertently benefited China in the electric vehicle sector and renewable energy technologies. He pointed out that California has long been at the forefront of environmental policy, improving air quality, cleaning waterways, and fostering a market for electric vehicles and green tech.

“Without California’s regulatory environment, there’s no Elon Musk. Tesla doesn’t exist,” Newsom stated.

His office reported that there are over 200,000 public charging points for electric vehicles in the state. Newsom expressed that California’s economy is flourishing, thanks to investments in green energy.

However, critics like U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright have argued that California’s emphasis on green energy is resulting in significantly higher electricity rates. “If you’re working class, that really impacts your quality of life,” he remarked following Newsom’s address.

Last week, Newsom enacted a substantial Climate and Environmental Bill package aimed at guiding California towards a clean energy future while trying to keep gas prices stable. One of these initiatives extends the state’s cap-and-trade program until 2045, generating billions for California’s climate projects and also funding the contentious high-speed rail system, which U.S. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy described as a “boondoggle.”

As Trump seeks to cut subsidies for electric vehicles and roll back fuel efficiency mandates, Newsom asserted that California remains the “only game in town” when it comes to serious environmental leadership.

This week’s series of governor appearances has highlighted the ongoing political tension surrounding climate change, especially in light of Trump’s claims that it’s a “green scam” devised by “silly people.” Newsom was quick to denounce these views.

“What Donald Trump has done is dishonorable, and his administration’s approach to the environment is equally dishonorable,” Newsom stated.

During his chat with Colbert, he reiterated his belief that the Trump administration exhibits authoritarian tendencies.

Newsom posed a rhetorical question about whether people label “authoritarianism” as hyperbole, replying, “It’s not hyperbolic if you’re part of a marginalized community in this country.”

Vice President JD Vance criticized Newsom’s claims, describing them as dangerous. “When Democrats like Gavin Newsom accuse others of authoritarianism and the media distorts the truth, it can incite violence against law enforcement,” he argued.

Vance further asserted that anyone inciting violence should “go straight to hell.”

In response, Newsom took to social media, humorously dismissing Vance’s remarks about hell. “When I hear you speak, I might already feel like I’m there,” he quipped.

A recent report also speculated that Trump could attempt to secure his position beyond his term end. “I’m concerned there won’t be elections in 2028 unless there’s a major shift to address the severity of the current events in this country,” he conveyed.