Newsom tells world leaders Trump's retreat on the environment will mean economic harm - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Phil Willon, Hayley Smith

February 13, 2026

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Gavin Newsom, governor of California, delivered a strong critique of President Trump’s environmental policies during his speech at the Munich Security Conference in Germany. Newsom argued that Trump’s rollback on climate change efforts would harm the U.S. automobile industry and cede economic leadership to China and other nations investing heavily in renewable energy. He urged global leaders to stand up against Trump’s approach, which he described as prioritizing the oil and coal industries over long-term environmental and economic stability. Newsom emphasized California’s role as a reliable partner in combating climate change, stating that Trump’s policies are temporary and that California will continue to lead on this issue. The Trump administration recently repealed the endangerment finding—a 2009 determination by the U.S. government that planet-heating pollution endangers human health and the environment—and rolled back federal vehicle emissions regulations. Lee Zeldin, administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, defended these actions, claiming they reduce regulatory burdens on auto manufacturers and lower costs for consumers. However, scientists and experts have condemned the move, calling it a departure from established science and a threat to global efforts to combat climate change. They warn that increasing greenhouse gas emissions will worsen extreme weather events and harm public health. Experts also highlighted the long-term economic consequences of these policies. By abandoning leadership in clean energy, the U.S. risks losing its competitive edge as countries like China accelerate investments in electric vehicles, solar power, and other renewable technologies. Newsom’s visit to Germany was part of a broader effort to position himself as a key figure in the Democratic Party’s opposition to Trump and Congress, as well as to build momentum for a potential presidential run in 2028. During his trip, he showcased California’s success in fostering innovation in electric vehicles, such as Tesla, and its role as a global hub for clean energy research and development. The Munich Security Conference brought together world leaders to discuss critical issues like global security, military strategy, and environmental sustainability. Along with Newsom, other speakers highlighted the economic benefits of transitioning to renewable energy. Andrew Forrest, executive chairman of Fortescue, a major mining company, shared how his company plans to transition to a “green grid” by the end of the decade, saving billions annually while reducing carbon emissions. Forrest emphasized that the shift to renewable energy is not only environmentally necessary but also economically viable. This summit underscores the

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/13/2026