Looking ahead at this critical year for climate and democracy, The Climate Center’s work in California feels more important to me than ever. There is, as usual, a lot to track, but these three trends in California climate policy are sure to have a ripple effect across the nation and the world.
First is the race to succeed Gavin Newsom as governor, which already has implications for climate policymaking both nationally and globally. As this is Newsom’s last year in office, we’ve got to push him to be as bold as possible in championing accelerated, equitable climate solutions. Newsom must support state efforts to leverage virtual power plants and other local, clean energy resources that will save ratepayers billions of dollars by 2030.
Second, the economy is emerging as a defining campaign issue and electricity costs, in particular, are becoming the flashpoint. AI data centers are driving massive new electricity demand, increasing costs, furthering reliance on dirty fossil fuel power, and straining California’s grid. Gubernatorial candidate and climate advocate Tom Steyer, a long-time supporter of Newsom, has already targeted PG&E as his main campaign villain. California has the opportunity to modernize the electricity grid and build more local, clean energy now, or let utilities and fossil fuel companies maintain control while we ratepayers foot the bill.
Finally, the state’s projected $18 billion budget shortfall — the third consecutive deficit year California has faced with more expected — is sure to raise the stakes. In years past, Governor Newsom has been forced to cut climate investments even though they create jobs and improve public health. This year, he should take a different approach by closing corporate tax loopholes and making big polluters pay for the costs of climate damages instead of taxpayers.
Please join me in taking action to encourage Governor Newsom to prioritize climate action in his final year as governor! And stay tuned for more opportunities to learn about where the gubernatorial field stands on key climate issues.
This blog first appeared in The Climate Center’s bi-weekly newsletter. To keep up with the latest climate news and ways to take action for a climate-safe future, subscribe today!
