Trump vs. Newsom: Legal battle erupts over California’s gas car ban

President Trump signed a congressional resolution Thursday blocking California’s plan to ban gas-powered vehicles—setting the stage for another legal showdown with Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The details: In a highly expected move, Trump revoked the California measure that would have mandated automakers sell only electric vehicles in the Golden State by 2035—delivering a major blow to the EV and zero-emissions environmental movement in the U.S.

• The Trump resolution nixes the federal waiver that allows California to set its own tailpipe emissions standards under the Clean Air Act.

• 17 states that had adopted California’s plan will no longer be able to enforce the standards mandating electric vehicle sales by 2035.

• The President also repealed California’s plan to set a series of benchmarks for zero-emission heavy-duty truck sales—aimed at phasing out gas-powered models of those as well. 

Why it matters: The push to roll back California’s ban on gas-powered cars has been heavily supported by automakers and dealers alike—with many saying the California measures were not only unobtainable, but that they would also cripple the auto industry. 

Between the lines: At the heart of the resolution is the Congressional Review Act (CRA) that the House and Senate used to roll back California’s plan— which could serve as grounds for Trump’s resolution to be overturned in court.

• California Attorney General Rob Bonta and 10 other state attorneys general have filed a suit against Trump and EPA Administrator Lee to protect the measure—with Bonta calling the move an “unprecedented and illegal use of the CRA.”

• Governor Newsom—who has been at the forefront of California’s zero-emissions push— has vowed to fight the Trump administration regarding the state’s plan, reaffirming his position on transitioning to EVs. 

Newsom also issued an executive order Thursday that doubled down on the state’s commitment to phase out gas and diesel-powered vehicles and directed the Air Resources Board to craft another mandate for cars and trucks — in the event they lose in court.

Bottom line:  If Trump’s resolution stands, it will completely upend the automotive industry—with several automakers already ramping up plans to add more gas-powered models to their U.S. lineup while scaling back on EVs.  

Outsmart the Car Market in 5 Minutes a Week

No-BS insights, built for car dealers. Free, fast, and trusted by 95,000+ auto pros.

Subscribe now — it’s free. 

Toma’s AI agents answer every call—free for 1 month.

Overwhelmed advisors? Too many missed calls?

You’re not alone… but you’re leaving revenue on the table.

Toma’s AI agents answer every inbound call 24/7, schedule appointments, and give your team hours back.

No more missed opportunities, frustrated customers, or burnt out team members.

Dealers using Toma are saving 30–40 hours of staff time per week and booking 100+ extra appointments per month.

CDG subscribers get an exclusive, no-risk 1-month free trial—claim yours today!