The U.S. Senate voted 51-44 on Thursday to block California’s landmark plan to phase out the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles, setting the stage for a legal battle that could significantly shape the electric car market across the United States. The move was hailed as a victory by the oil and gas industry and Republican lawmakers, who employed an unusual legislative tactic that Democrats criticized as a ‘nuclear’ option with far-reaching implications beyond climate policy.
Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan was the sole Democrat to vote against the California policy, while her fellow Michigan Democrat, Senator Gary Peters, voted in line with the party. Peters is not seeking re-election. Five senators, comprising three Republicans and two Democrats, abstained from voting.
The repeal is a significant setback for California’s efforts to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. Moreover, its consequences will be felt nationwide, as 11 other states had planned to follow California’s lead and cease selling new gas-powered cars by 2035. Collectively, these states account for approximately 40 percent of the U.S. auto market.
Having already been approved by the House, the resolution now heads to President Trump’s desk for signature. Mr. Trump, known for his opposition to clean energy initiatives and his particular disdain for California’s efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption, is expected to sign the resolution into law.
California leaders have vowed to challenge the Senate’s decision and attempt to reinstate the ban. At a news conference in Sacramento, Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, stood behind a sign reading, ‘Trump’s GOP is Making America Smoggy Again,’ and argued that repealing the policies would give China an advantage in the race to improve vehicle technology.
The legal battle ahead is likely to have profound implications for the future of the electric car market in the United States, as well as the broader climate policy landscape.
