President Donald Trump is escalating his conflict with California beyond immigration to include environmental policies. He plans to sign three recent congressional measures targeting state auto regulations aimed at reducing vehicle emissions. This move comes amidst a clash with California Governor Gavin Newsom over the deployment of National Guard troops to quell protests in Los Angeles, which Newsom criticized as dictatorial.

Trump’s actions specifically target California’s environmental regulations, including a plan to ban gasoline-only vehicle sales by 2035, a policy that other states have also adopted. Additionally, he aims to repeal a waiver allowing California to mandate 80% electric vehicles by 2035 and to block regulations on zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and smog-forming air pollution.

California, known for its environmental leadership, has a history of receiving waivers under the Clean Air Act to combat pollution. Trump’s efforts align with his opposition to electric vehicle mandates and his reversal of Biden’s pro-EV stance. Legislation passed by the House proposes removing tax credits for EVs, imposing fees on EVs for road repairs, and phasing out EV battery production credits.

Trump’s recent promotion of Tesla vehicles contrasts with his public feud with Elon Musk, Tesla’s founder, over electric vehicle incentives. Despite their disagreements, Trump remains steadfast in his campaign against EV mandates and support for the traditional auto industry.

In a broader context, the clash between Trump and California reflects a larger ideological divide on environmental policies, climate change, and the future of the automotive industry in the United States.