**States to Lead Climate Action Amid Trump Administration's Efforts to Roll Back Policies**

Former Biden White House National Climate Adviser Gina McCarthy emphasized that efforts by the incoming Trump administration to undo the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) would be futile. Speaking during a call with U.S. climate leaders, McCarthy stressed the determination to uphold recent climate progress and promote local action to counter any federal setbacks.

In the call, which included representatives from America is All In, the U.S. Climate Alliance, and Climate Mayors, participants discussed strategies to safeguard and advance climate initiatives amidst the new administration. McCarthy, now a managing co-chair of America is All In, highlighted the significant economic benefits brought by clean energy investments under the IRA, noting how these have particularly favored Republican-led districts. She pointed out that federal policies resulted in $910 billion in public and private investments, leading to more than 330,000 well-paying jobs, predominantly in Republican areas.

President-elect Donald Trump had previously announced plans to rescind unspent IRA funds and roll back environmental regulations enacted during the Biden administration. His statements have raised concerns among climate and environmental groups about potential negative impacts on climate efforts. Following Trump's projected win in the 2024 presidential race, organizations like the National Resources Defense Council and the World Resources Institute reaffirmed their commitment to climate goals and voiced apprehension over the incoming administration's stance.

State and local officials, including Governors Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico and Jay Inslee of Washington, echoed a strong resolve to pursue climate objectives regardless of federal shifts. Speaking during the climate leaders' call, Lujan Grisham reaffirmed the responsibility of state governments to address the climate crisis and maintain commitments to international agreements like the Paris Accord. Inslee, reflecting on Washington's stance, described Trump as a mere "speed bump" on the path to a clean energy future, emphasizing his state's commitment to continue progress.

Members of the U.S. Climate Alliance, a bipartisan coalition of 24 governors, assured that they would carry on with high-impact state-led climate actions. Inslee expressed confidence that if states adopt clean energy policies, it will not only drive economic growth but also lead to reduced carbon emissions.

The overarching sentiment among climate leaders was clear: despite challenges posed by the new federal administration, states and local governments, alongside private sector partners, are prepared to sustain and expand climate initiatives to meet national and global environmental commitments.