President Donald Trump recently held a signing ceremony at the White House to celebrate Congress’s decision to overturn California’s law that aimed to ban gas-powered cars by 2035. This law, championed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, was part of the state’s broader effort to tackle climate change and promote electric vehicles.
The resolutions passed by Congress used the Congressional Review Act, a legislative tool that allows lawmakers to nullify regulations. Following the signing, Governor Newsom announced that California would challenge this decision in court, joined by ten other states. This legal battle highlights the ongoing conflict between state and federal authority over environmental regulations.
In 2020, Newsom had signed an executive order to phase out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles in California. This move was seen as a significant step in U.S. environmental policy, but it faced strong opposition from conservative lawmakers. The Republican-controlled House of Representatives blocked the ban earlier this year, arguing that it was impractical and harmful to consumers and the economy.
During the ceremony, Trump criticized California’s regulations, calling them "ridiculous" and claiming they would hurt the economy. He invited Bill Kent, a convenience store owner, to speak about the challenges of investing in electric vehicle infrastructure. Kent shared that many customers still prefer gas-powered vehicles.
Additionally, John Hess, CEO of the Hess Corporation, expressed support for the resolution, stating that it protects consumer choice and strengthens the economy. He argued that the oil and gas industry plays a crucial role in American energy independence and national security.
The ceremony also included anecdotes from truck drivers who fear that these regulations could jeopardize their businesses. Trump emphasized that if consumers want electric vehicles, they are free to purchase them, but he believes mandating such a shift is not the right approach.
Newsom, in response, accused Trump and the Republicans of being influenced by major polluters. He argued that clean air should not be a partisan issue and pointed to past Republican leaders who supported environmental protections.
In the stock market, shares of Tesla and other electric vehicle companies showed mixed reactions to the news. Tesla’s stock declined initially but rebounded later in the day.
As this legal battle unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts the future of environmental policy in the U.S. and whether states can maintain their authority to set stricter regulations than those imposed at the federal level.