Belem, Brazil – California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized US President Donald Trump for failing to send top-level officials to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belem, Brazil. Speaking at a ministerial panel on November 11, 2025, Newsom called the absence an “abdication of duty” by the United States, one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters.

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Newsom Takes the Stage in Trump’s Absence

Newsom, a prominent Democrat and potential 2028 presidential contender, used his presence at COP30 to emphasize California’s leadership in clean energy and climate policy.

“I come here with humility, coming from the United States. I’m very mindful that the Trump administration has abandoned any sense of duty, responsibility, or leadership as it relates to the issues that bring us all here together,” Newsom said.

He positioned California as a model for bipartisan climate action, citing Republican leaders such as Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon for historical efforts to reduce pollution.

“I’m here because I don’t want the United States of America to be a footnote at this conference,” Newsom added.

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Criticism of Trump’s Climate and Foreign Policies

Newsom framed the absence of the US at COP30 as a strategic opening for China to expand its global influence.

“China is here. Only one country’s not here: United States of America,” he said, highlighting the risk of lost economic and technological leadership in clean energy.

The California governor also condemned Trump’s continued promotion of fossil fuels and offshore drilling, including proposals along the California coastline, calling the plan “dead on arrival.”

Newsom further linked Trump’s unilateral Caribbean and Pacific air strikes on vessels to a broader critique of US governance:

“It’s chilling to me to see the United States of America blowing up boats with no transparency, no advice and consent with the United States Congress,” he said.

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Connecting Climate Policy to Voter Understanding

Addressing the challenge of public engagement, Newsom emphasized the importance of simplifying climate change language for everyday citizens:

“We talk about greenhouse gas emissions. Where are they? Do they float in the sky, or where do they land? We don’t understand. We have to use better metaphors. We have to change our language.”

Despite questions about his own political ambitions, Newsom avoided directly addressing potential presidential plans, using humor to deflect inquiries.

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California’s Global Climate Leadership

Newsom’s participation at COP30 reflects a broader effort by US state and local officials to demonstrate leadership on climate action in the absence of federal representation. His stance underscores California’s role as a climate innovator and sends a strong message about the need for international cooperation on emission reduction and clean energy development.