Key facts
- Xavier Becerra, a leading candidate for California governor, has expressed reservations about the state's aggressive climate policies.
- Becerra indicated flexibility on the 2035 ban of new gas and hybrid vehicle sales and the 2045 carbon neutrality target.
- The Trump administration has actively challenged California's environmental regulations and climate initiatives.
- Becerra's past actions as California attorney general involved suing over environmental rule rollbacks.
- Public opinion polls show a split among California Democrats regarding the cost of climate policies.
California's ambitious climate goals face potential renegotiation under Xavier Becerra, the leading Democratic candidate for governor, who has expressed pragmatic concerns about affordability and economic impact. While Becerra has a record of challenging federal environmental rollbacks, his primary campaign statements have raised questions among environmental groups about his commitment to the state's aggressive energy transition targets.
During his primary campaign, Becerra positioned himself as a cost-conscious alternative, even stating "you need Chevron, I need Chevron," which drew criticism. He has not fully committed to the 2035 ban on new gas and hybrid vehicle sales and has signaled openness to adjusting the 2045 carbon neutrality goal, citing concerns about the economy and cost of living.
This stance places Becerra in a difficult position, as he will need to balance these domestic pressures with the need to counter federal attacks on California's climate agenda from the Trump administration. The federal government has actively worked against California's environmental policies, including restarting oil pipelines, influencing offshore wind projects, and targeting emissions trading programs. Republicans in Congress have also revoked state EV sales mandates and sought to overturn vehicle emissions rules.
Becerra has countered by highlighting his past work as California attorney general, where he sued over environmental rule rollbacks and established a Bureau of Environmental Justice. He stated on X that his record shows he takes climate change seriously and will fight to protect vulnerable communities.
However, polling indicates that while Democratic voters are concerned about climate change, they are increasingly hesitant about the associated costs. A significant portion of Democrats oppose the gas car executive order and express concern about higher electricity bills, even while supporting stricter environmental laws overall.
Political consultants offer differing views on how much the federal dynamic will shape Becerra's governorship. Some believe the need to oppose Trump will push him to defend California's climate leadership, while others suggest a governor's primary focus will remain on state-level concerns like cost of living.
Environmental advocates are cautiously optimistic that Becerra will be more receptive to their concerns now that the primary is over, allowing him to move beyond the need to differentiate himself from more progressive candidates. His establishment of an environmental justice bureau is seen as a positive step by some groups.