World News
How Newsom’s China trip could boost climate change research — and his political profile on November 4, 2023 at 6:00 pm
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D) recent trip to China may have far-reaching implications both for the fight against climate change and his political future.
Public policy experts agreed the visit could become a catalyst for advances in critical climate change research, while also elevating the governor’s stature on the national political stage.
“It’s a very surprising move that he went so engagement-oriented, at a time when engagement is seen as a dirty word by some people,” Alex Wang, a law professor at the University of California Los Angeles, told The Hill.
Wang, who also co-directs UCLA’s Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, was referring to a global era of geopolitical tension, in which having such vocal support from leaders represents “a green light for more collaboration.”
“If you believe that we need to move as quickly as possible on climate action and climate research, then this seems like a positive,” Wang said.
“What do these types of trips do? They send the political signals and they lay the groundwork for subsequent work,” he added.
Newsom’s visit to China — which followed a brief stop in Israel — was the first such trip made by an American governor in more than four years and in part served to thaw tensions between the countries, his office stated.
The trip, according to Newsom’s team, prioritized three goals: advancing climate action, promoting economic development and tourism, and strengthening cultural bonds. It also involved meetings with high-level officials, including President Xi Jinping.
Newsom, who is widely believed to harbor presidential ambitions, refrained from addressing whether the trip has bolstered his image on the national stage — noting during the press call that these considerations were not a reason for the trip.
But from an outsider’s perspective, Thad Kousser, a political science professor at the University of California San Diego, told The Hill he believes the trip offered Newsom the opportunity “to be taken seriously as a presidential contender.”
“The image of you sitting next to the leader of the second most powerful country in the world elevates your image,” he continued.
“It comes with risks, as well as positives, but when you’re sitting next to President Xi, people can envision you as President Newsom,” Kousser added.
Building a bridge on climate action
Since his return stateside last weekend, the governor and his staff members have been touting the trip’s achievements in the geopolitical and climate change arenas.
“This is a governor who cares about climate, has been looking for a signature accomplishment on climate,” Kousser noted.
During the trip — which included meetings in Hong Kong, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Beijing and Shanghai — California and various Chinese entities signed five memoranda of understanding (MOUs) that focus on forging new climate partnerships.
The subjects of these memoranda included partnerships on the deployment of offshore wind and other renewables, climate change adaptation and mitigation, industrial decarbonization and the creation of a future green shipping corridor between Los Angeles and Shanghai.
“If these MOUs turn into concrete actions, if the conversations lead to collaboration, this could be part of the legacy that he’s trying to build,” Kousser said of the governor.
Newsom expressed confidence that these documents are not aspirational and that they are being “taken very, very seriously” by Chinese officials.
“It was mentioned in multiple big meetings,” the governor said during the Tuesday press call. “When they make commitments, they aim to keep them.”
While Wang viewed these comments as a possible attempt to persuade reporters the MOUs “aren’t just symbolic,” he said he sees them as significant nonetheless.
“If China is in the mood and has interest in getting something out of these meetings, the MOUs are very strong enablers of the people who want to do those things within the system,” he said.
Since Newsom has met with Xi, there could be no “clearer signal that it’s okay to work with California,” Wang added.
Meetings between Newsom and Chinese officials also led to the issuance of a joint declaration on subnational climate cooperation — including actions such as aggressive cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, shifts away from fossil fuels and the development of renewables.
Later this month, California officials also plan to engage with Chinese counterparts at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in San Francisco and at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, the governor’s office stated.
Ahead of APEC — where President Biden is expected to meet with Xi — Newsom said his trip “was an opportunity to build some momentum” and reinvigorate well-established partnerships.
As far as COP28 is concerned, the governor’s office said California’s delegation would be partaking in bilateral meetings with representatives from China and other critical partners.
“For me, it’s simple. California can’t solve its climate crisis alone — it needs partners,” Newsom told reporters on a Tuesday press call.
“The United States can’t either,” he continued. “Without the partnership of China, the globe is ultimately impacted.”
Newsom noted during the press call that China’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market has “taken off” and described the country as being “at a next level, in terms of their investments in the offshore wind.”
As California grapples with how to streamline its clean energy deployment and continue its path of rapid implementation, Wang stressed the state has a lot to learn from China.
He emphasized China “is by far the world leader” when it comes to its rapid deployment of clean energy infrastructure and electric transportation.
Although Wang acknowledged China’s looser protections on property rights and its streamlined participation process, he stressed these are not the only factors that have led to success.
“What is also true is that there has been a tremendous amount of policy and fiscal support for these things,” he said.
China’s transition hasn’t been perfect, but one advantage of ongoing engagement is the willingness of each side to admit their respective problems, Wang added.
In a post-trip wrap-up from Newsom’s office, his team went so far as to declare “the fate of the world releases on climate cooperation with China.”
Noting that pollution doesn’t stop at borders, the wrap-up posed two choices: refuse to collaborate with the world’s biggest emitter or find areas of commonality. California, the report declared, could “serve as a bridge on one of the most consequential issues of our time.”
Laying the groundwork for future collaboration
While Newsom’s trip to China was primarily focused on climate collaboration, his conversations touched upon other topics in the Golden State’s interests and of international focus.
During his post-trip press call, the governor recalled discussions of human rights issues, Taiwan and democracy in Tibet during his meetings with high-level Chinese officials, including Xi. He also recounted conversations about fentanyl and the drug’s precursors, many of which are produced in China.
Recognizing the inherent uncertainties linked to engagement with China, Kousser credited Newsom for pushing Xi on certain issues and for posing “very tough questions.”
For example, Kousser continued, the governor took “a big objection to American action on climate change” — the idea the U.S. shouldn’t act if China doesn’t — and faced it “head on by grabbing China’s hand and pulling it with us.”
These broader geopolitical considerations notwithstanding, Newsom reiterated a main goal of his trip: to present California as a stable partner and change-maker in the energy sector.
“Regardless of the prevailing winds in Washington, D.C., California continues to dominate in this space,” the governor said.
Stepping back and evaluating the trip in general, Wang said he couldn’t think of anything he would have liked to see happen that didn’t.
“He wanted to change the tenor of things, shift the direction of things and to lay the groundwork for future work,” the professor added of Newsom. “I think it really was successful in that regard.”
At the same time, however, Wang said he didn’t think the visit would open doors for future federal partnerships between the two countries.
U.S.-funded research projects do already exist in China, but agency-to-agency partnerships have wavered — coming to a halt during the Trump administration, according to Wang.
“There’s a political risk for Americans to do that kind of collaboration,” he added.
For his part, Newsom stressed that he visited China neither as a secretary of State nor as a representative of the Biden administration.
“I went there as governor of California,” he said. “I went there with longstanding relationships to China that go back decades.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D) recent trip to China may have far-reaching implications both for the fight against climate change and his political future. Public policy experts agreed the visit could become a catalyst for advances in critical climate change research, while also elevating the governor’s stature on the national political stage. “It’s a very surprising…
Business
The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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Business
How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
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Business
Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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