Newsom’s problems are piling up.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is escalating his battle against traditional energy and American manufacturing, this time taking direct aim at General Motors (GM) and CEO Mary Barra. In a fiery speech, Newsom accused GM of “selling out” California by siding with President Trump and Republicans in Congress over policies that rolled back electric vehicle (EV) subsidies.
Newsom Blames Trump and GM for EV Subsidy Rollback
When asked about the state’s plan to replace the federal EV tax credits that were eliminated under President Trump, Newsom blasted both GM and Republicans.
“You’re talking about the Biden-era tax credit that the Trump administration eliminated,” Newsom said. “We can’t make up for that federal vandalism, but we are making unprecedented investments in infrastructure here in California.”
The governor then went further, accusing GM of undermining decades of environmental progress.
“GM sold us out. Mary Barra sold us out,” Newsom declared. “Republicans rolled back Ronald Reagan’s original emissions standards under Trump’s leadership — and GM led that effort.”
This marks one of the harshest attacks yet by a sitting governor on a major U.S. automaker, especially one with deep historical ties to American workers and manufacturing.
California’s Electric Vehicle Push – and Its Hidden Costs
California has long been a testing ground for green energy mandates. Newsom boasted that about one in four new vehicles sold in the state are electric or hybrid, the highest share in the nation. He credited these policies for helping companies like Elon Musk’s Tesla thrive.
To fund his aggressive climate agenda, California relies on its cap-and-trade program, which forces companies to purchase “carbon credits” for the right to emit greenhouse gases.
Critics say this is essentially a hidden tax that drives up gas prices and utility bills, hitting middle-class families and retirees the hardest.
Despite his rhetoric about fighting climate change, Newsom admitted the state cannot fully replace the federal subsidies Trump eliminated. This leaves California taxpayers footing the bill for expensive EV infrastructure projects while wealthy corporations benefit.
Newsom’s Hypocrisy: Green Rhetoric vs. Oil Reality
Even as Newsom pushes his EV agenda, he is quietly working to stop the mass exodus of oil and gas companies from California. Over the past four decades, the number of oil refineries in the state has plummeted from 40 in 1983 to just 13 today, with two more set to shut down soon.
This decline has led to skyrocketing gas prices, with some California cities seeing prices above $7 per gallon, devastating working families and seniors on fixed incomes.
Facing growing public outrage, Newsom reversed course and signed legislation to fast-track 2,000 new oil wells per year in Kern County, one of the state’s top oil-producing regions.
“Millions of Californians will soon see major savings on their energy bills,” Newsom said, adding that the state is “working to stabilize the fuel supply to avoid drastic price hikes while continuing to support clean energy investments.”
Critics argue this is nothing more than damage control to hide the failure of California’s green energy policies.
The Bigger Picture: Trump vs. Newsom
Newsom’s clash with GM isn’t just about cars — it’s about two competing visions for America’s future.
- Newsom and California Democrats want government-mandated green policies, higher taxes, and strict regulations.
- President Trump and Republicans favor energy independence, lower costs, and policies that protect American workers and industries.
With the 2026 elections approaching, this battle is expected to play a major role in shaping debates over the economy, energy policy, and America’s global competitiveness.
Bottom Line for Everyday Americans
While Newsom blames Trump and GM, California drivers and taxpayers are paying the price. Gas prices remain painfully high, EVs are still out of reach for many middle-class families, and businesses continue fleeing the state.
Meanwhile, President Trump’s policies aim to bring manufacturing back home, reduce dependence on foreign energy, and put American families first.
For millions of Americans — especially those living on fixed incomes — the question remains: Who’s really looking out for you?
Key Takeaways
- Newsom attacks GM and Mary Barra, accusing them of siding with Trump over EV subsidies.
- California’s green policies drive up gas prices and utility costs.
- Newsom quietly approves 2,000 new oil wells to stop refinery closures.
- The fight symbolizes the clash between Trump’s America-first policies and California’s far-left agenda.
Why This Story Matters
This is more than a California issue. Newsom’s policies impact national energy prices, the auto industry, and America’s economic future. Whether you drive a truck, SUV, or hybrid, this fight will affect your wallet — and your freedom to choose what you drive.
