Becerra Bucks Left on Climate: Refuses to Back Gas Car Sales Phase-Out

Democratic gubernatorial frontrunner Xavier Becerra and California’s ambitious climate policy

“You need Chevron, I need Chevron,” comments Xavier Becerra, Democratic gubernatorial frontrunner, taking a divergent stance from his party on California’s climate policy. He is reluctant to support the state’s plan to phase out new gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035.

Becerra, former Health and Human Services secretary, who leads the polls for the forthcoming primary, is cautious on the state’s objective to ban new gas and hybrid vehicle sales in 2035.

Becerra on affordability and infrastructure

“California should transition from gas-powered vehicles when affordability and infrastructure align,” Becerra declared in response to a POLITICO survey.

Shifting towards a moderate approach

This represents a moderate shift in climate policy with affordability concerns gaining prominence in California’s politics.

Factors influencing California’s transition from fossil fuels

The transition from fossil fuels relies on unpredictable factors such as federal support, automaker cooperation, and the state’s economic health, explains Becerra.

Contrasting views on emission regulations

Becerra’s stance differs from Newsom’s policies, rejecting the 2020 mandate aimed at toughening emissions standards and accelerating California’s switch to electric vehicles.

Political implications and reactions

Billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer, Becerra’s rival, has been criticizing Becerra’s acceptance of oil industry donations, dubbing him “Big Oil Becerra.”

Becerra’s stance has triggered alarm among clean transportation advocates, who are concerned about its implications on pollution and California’s reputation as a climate leader.

However, others argue Becerra’s concerns portray the real-world issues the successor to Newsom will face.