POLITICO Energy Newsom flexes CA climate muscle at COP30
Nov 12, 2025
Debra Kahn, California Policy Editor for POLITICO, joins the discussion on Governor Gavin Newsom's impactful presence at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. She highlights Newsom's soft power and how he's stepping into a leadership role amid Trump's absence. Kahn also delves into the challenges California faces, including setbacks from previous policies and ongoing tensions over offshore drilling. The conversation sheds light on how Newsom balances climate initiatives with the realities of energy affordability and global reception.
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California's Soft Power At COP30
- Gavin Newsom leverages California's economic weight to exercise "soft power" at COP30 despite lacking presidential authority.
- He signs memorandums and builds visibility to influence investors and international audiences outside treaty-making powers.
Newsom's Celebrity Turn In Sao Paulo
- Reporters described Newsom being mobbed for meetings and selfies at investor events in Sao Paulo.
- His presence had a celebrity-like feel that amplified attention on California's climate agenda.
Filling The U.S. Leadership Gap
- Newsom frames his COP30 attendance as filling a U.S. leadership gap created by President Trump's absence.
- He explicitly contrasts temporary national leadership with sustained state-level action to keep global partners engaged.