Here are the morning’s top stories on Thursday, July 25, 2024…
- California finds itself at a climate crossroads. The state has strong, clean air and clean energy goals that are currently aligned with federal policy. And now, with Kamala Harris poised as the Democratic standard bearer, the Golden State could see one of its own in the White House. Harris has spent much of her career working on environmental and climate issues. A Harris administration could help the state meet its goals and perhaps give it additional momentum. But what might happen to the state goals under a second Trump presidency?
- Cal Fire is rushing crews to the latest rapidly growing wildfire in Northern California – this time forcing thousands of people from their homes in Butte and Tehama counties.
California Largely Won Its Climate Fight With Trump. Round 2 Could Be Tougher
California has arguably never had so much climate momentum, enjoying a moment of alignment between its strong environmental goals and federal policy after battling with the Trump administration.
However, a second term for former President Donald Trump — a Trump vs. California 2.0 — would almost certainly be a vicious legal rematch between the most populous state in the nation and an administration intent on weakening its regulations and protections.
California and the Trump administration were constantly fighting in court and in the headlines, with the state participating in almost 100 lawsuits against the U.S. during his presidency, according to a tracker developed by a Marquette University political scientist.
In hindsight, the state’s laws and policies emerged relatively unscathed. However, during a second Trump term, the administration could be more successful in hampering California’s climate and environmental policies.
Park Fire Near Chico Is Largest Burning In State
More fire concerns, this time in Northern California. A massive wildfire has forced thousands of people from their homes in Butte and Tehama counties.