Gavin Newsom Appeals for Federal Support in D.C.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is traveling to Washington, D.C., to meet with the Biden administration, seeking to safeguard the state's progressive policies ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming term. During his visit, Newsom will request a $5.2 billion reimbursement for COVID-19 relief, federal support for state climate rules, and updates to California's Medicaid program. Key issues on the agenda include California's ambitious plan to ban new gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035, which Trump has previously opposed. Newsom anticipates a combative relationship with the Trump administration, particularly regarding immigration and environmental regulations. Political analysts express concerns over whether Trump's judicial appointments will allow him to challenge California's policies more effectively than in his first term. This visit follows Newsom's call for a special legislative session to address these issues in December.