News and Updates

Georgia Panitz 12/3/25 Georgia Panitz 12/3/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Rollback of Cost-Saving Vehicle Emission Standards

Washington, D.C. (December 3, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it would roll back the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, a set of fuel economy regulations that was projected to help Americans save $23 billion in fuel costs and breathe cleaner air.

“Fuel economy standards have played a vital role in reducing costs, improving air quality, and making cleaner cars accessible to all Americans. Through commitments like electrifying half of their vehicle fleets by 2030 and joining the Electric Vehicles Purchasing Collaborative, Climate Mayors nationwide are ensuring community access to cleaner, safer, and more affordable transportation. At a time when nearly half of Americans say the high cost of living is one of their biggest challenges, we should be doubling down on proven strategies that have delivered household savings. As the Trump administration works to turn back the clock on progress, mayors are relentlessly advancing cleaner, more affordable transportation for all. Unlike the federal government, we will not back down from our promise to create safe, healthy, resilient cities that everyone can afford to live and thrive in.”

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About Climate Mayors

Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 11/13/25 Isabelle Klein 11/13/25

Climate Mayors Announces New 2026 Steering Committee Members

Mayors Kirk Watson (Austin, TX), Randall Woodfin (Birmingham, AL), Rex Richardson (Long Beach, CA), Patricia Lock Dawson (Riverside, CA), Daniel Lurie (San Francisco, CA), and Nadia Mohamed (St. Louis Park, MN) join Climate Mayors’ leadership committee in continued commitment to drive ambitious climate solutions

Washington, D.C. (November 13, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors proudly announced the addition of six city leaders to its 2026 Steering Committee: Mayors Kirk Watson (Austin, TX), Randall Woodfin (Birmingham, AL), Rex Richardson (Long Beach, CA), Patricia Lock Dawson (Riverside, CA), Daniel Lurie (San Francisco, CA), and Nadia Mohamed (St. Louis Park, MN). Representing U.S. cities on the West Coast, the South and the Midwest, these leaders are building thriving and clean energy economies delivering lower costs, fighting climate change, and cutting pollution in their communities.

The newly appointed Steering Committee members bring determination, deep expertise, and a commitment to providing affordable energy, resilient communities, and a healthy future for generations to come. These mayors join the 23 other Climate Mayors Steering Committee members from across the nation who are leading in this critical time of federal retrenchment on climate change and clean energy. As showcased at the COP30 Local Leaders Forum, this group of leaders is ready to carry the climate leadership and election momentum of 2025 forward into 2026, turning climate ambition into tangible benefits felt by communities across the country.

“We're proud to welcome six outstanding mayors to our steering committee. These leaders have each demonstrated leadership by implementing climate solutions that lower costs, reduce toxic pollution, and build healthier, safer communities,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “Their vision, experience, and commitment will help us leverage new opportunities, expand our hard-won progress, and deliver real results for communities across the country. With their leadership, Climate Mayors are poised to accelerate the transition to thriving, safe and affordable cities for all.”

Mayor Kirk Watson, Austin, TX
In Austin, Mayor Watson has made accelerating solar and battery deployment a central component of the city’s future operations and maximizing investment opportunities at the local level. He has also taken steps to address climate impacts head on and mitigate extreme wildfire risks. These efforts have included fuel reduction efforts, updated building codes, and collaboration with neighborhood associations to boost preparedness and resilience.

“Austin is harnessing the power of the sun to expand local and utility scale solar and battery storage opportunities. As a result, we’re seeing the availability of more plentiful electricity solutions that are powering our city operations while reducing harmful emissions. I’m honored to join the Steering Committee and work with peers to safeguard our cities and seize the opportunities of the clean energy transition,” said Mayor Watson.

Mayor Randall Woodfin, Birmingham, AL
Mayor Woodfin has championed practical and innovative solutions to improve life for residents in Birmingham while reducing emissions. The city is well on its way to electrifying 50% of its municipal fleet and has expanded its e-bike voucher program to provide alternative transportation options for community members.

“Birmingham is a prime example that even in a red state, we can make real progress on fleet electrification and equitable transportation solutions that benefit all residents and improve the quality of life in our city. As a Steering Committee member, I will advocate for sustained investment in climate programs and share Birmingham’s lessons and work with other Climate Mayors to help other cities accelerate all of their climate goals,” said Mayor Randall Woodfin, City of Birmingham.

Mayor Rex Richardson, Long Beach, CA

Mayor Richardson is advancing the decarbonization of his city’s trade industry by electrifying the Port of Long Beach—one of the greenest ports in the nation—and leading the establishment of the world’s first green shipping corridor. He has led Long Beach’s transition away from dependence on oil extraction by prioritizing local investments that are helping the city build a more sustainable and resilient economy.

“Long Beach is demonstrating that port cities can lead on climate by electrifying our infrastructure and transitioning away from oil – all while boosting our local economy in the process. As a member of the Steering Committee, I look forward to collaborating with other mayors and showing how cities can lead a large-scale transition toward net-zero infrastructure and solutions that serve our communities,” said Mayor Rex Richardson, City of Long Beach.

Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, Riverside, CA

Patricia Lock Dawson is currently serving her second term as Mayor of the City of Riverside. A wildlife biologist by training and a lifelong public servant, Mayor Lock Dawson has been a dedicated advocate for environmental stewardship and sustainability.

She previously served as President of the Rivers and Lands Conservancy and currently sits on several prominent boards, including the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD), Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI), and the Riverside Conservation Authority. She also serves as Vice Chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Standing Committee on the Environment.

As Mayor, Lock Dawson has positioned Riverside as a leader in climate action, putting the city on track to achieve 69% renewable energy by 2027, hosting the city’s first local Town Hall COP to connect global climate goals with community action, and attracting six green technology manufacturing companies to Riverside within the past 18 months.

“As a lifelong public servant, I’ve always believed that good environmental policy is also good economic policy. In Riverside, we’ve shown that sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand. From putting our city on track to reach 69% renewable energy by 2027, to hosting our first local Town Hall COP to bring global climate goals home, to attracting six new green technology manufacturers in the past 18 months, we’re proving that cities can lead the way in building a cleaner, more resilient future,” said Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, City of Riverside.

Mayor Daniel Lurie, San Francisco, CA

San Francisco under Mayor Lurie’s leadership has emerged as a champion for climate action, having received the U.S Conference of Mayor’s top national climate honor in 2025. Mayor Lurie has focused his efforts on clean mobility, building electrification, and streamlining climate innovation as the city takes steps to reach new bold targets that will be announced in its forthcoming 2025 Climate Plan.

“San Francisco has long been a leader in climate protection and a hub for innovative climate ideas. As our city gears up to announce new targets in our updated Climate Action Plan, I’m looking forward to bringing our city’s innovations to the 2026 Steering Committee. I’m honored to work alongside other leaders who are turning climate ideas into real progress for our communities.,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie, City and County of San Francisco.

Mayor Nadia Mohamed, St. Louis Park, MN

Mayor Mohamed has risen as a national leader on sustainability and inclusion, prioritizing the defense of and expansion of climate investments, accelerating clean energy adoption, and building resilient, equitable communities. She’s shown how climate action and affordable housing are intertwined, and focused efforts on creating more housing options for low-income communities while aiming to achieve carbon neutrality in St. Louis Park by 2040.

“Cities are on the front lines of climate impacts and the most vulnerable communities stand to be impacted the most. I’m dedicated to defending climate investments, expanding clean energy, and ensuring our all of our residents benefit from these efforts. It’s an honor to help guide this work through Climate Mayors,” said Mayor Nadia Mohamed, City of St. Louis Park.

Climate Mayors Steering Committee Members:

We celebrate the following members who will be part of our steering committee in 2026 and will work to advance Climate Mayors mission to drive local climate action:

Tim Keller, Albuquerque, NM; Andre Dickens, Atlanta, GA; Kirk Watson, Austin, TX; Michael P. Cahill, Beverly, MA; Randall Woodfin, Birmingham, AL; Lauren McLean, Boise, ID; Michelle Wu, Boston, MA; Justin Bibb, Cleveland, OH; Barbara Buffaloe, Columbia, MO; Daniel Rickenmann, Columbia, SC; Eric Johnson, Dallas, TX; Jim Hovland, Edina, MN; Indya Kincannon, Knoxville, TN; Leirion Gaylor Baird, Lincoln, NE; Frank Scott, Little Rock, AR; Rex Richardson, Long Beach, CA; Karen Bass, Los Angeles, CA; Satya Rhodes-Conway, Madison, WI; Jacob Frey, Minneapolis, MN; Shawyn Patterson-Howard, Mount Vernon, NY; Buddy Dyer, Orlando, FL; Kate Gallego, Phoenix, AZ; Angela Birney, Redmond, WA; Patricia Lock Dawson, Riverside, CA; Daniel Lurie, San Francisco, CA; Nadia Mohamed, St. Louis Park, MN; Caroline Simmons, Stamford, CT; Jane Castor, Tampa, FL; Regina Romero, Tucson, AZ;

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 8/7/25 Isabelle Klein 8/7/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s Proposed Rollback of Cost-Saving Solar Program

Washington D.C. (August 7, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed cancelation of the critical Solar for All program, a $7 billion investment which helps low-income and rural Americans access cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable solar energy. Solar for All is projected to lower energy bills for American households by $400 each year:

“Solar for All is a transformative program helping mayors across the country deliver affordable, reliable, and clean solar energy to families who need it the most,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “No hardworking family should have to choose between keeping their lights on and putting food on the table. Attempting to cancel Solar for All could result in one million Americans seeing their energy costs go up. Climate Mayors around the country remain steadfast in their commitment to deliver innovative clean energy solutions that lower energy bills, create good-paying jobs, and cut toxic pollution.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 7/29/25 Georgia Panitz 7/29/25

Climate Mayors Affirm Commitment to Public Health While EPA Abdicates Responsibility To Protect Americans From Climate Pollution

Washington, D.C. (July 29, 2025) - Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens condemn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposal to dismantle the Endangerment Finding and roll back greenhouse gas emissions standards. Climate Mayors stand united in defending the science, common sense, and protections that keep our communities safe and healthy.

Statement from Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego (Phoenix, AZ), Vice Chair Mayor Lauren McLean (Boise, ID), and Vice Chair Mayor Andre Dickens (Atlanta, GA):

“Today’s actions by the Trump Administration fail to protect Americans’ health and wellbeing—the most basic responsibility of government. Undermining EPA’s ability to protect people from pollutants is a rejection of science and common sense. The regulations that the Administration is undermining have resulted in better air quality in communities across the country and are central to America’s ability to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

This retreat from science-based standards will result in increasingly intense summer heat, unpredictable rainfall patterns resulting in floods and drought, and economic harm and health impacts to American families. Mayors will not back down from our mission to safeguard our residents’ health and build better, safer, and more affordable cities.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 7/2/25 Isabelle Klein 7/2/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Reaffirm Commitment to Clean Energy and Affordability Following Congressional Rollbacks

Despite setback from the federal government, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego and Vice Chairs Mayor Lauren McLean and Mayor Andre Dickens say Climate Mayors will continue pursuing the popular green programs and policies creating good-paying jobs, reducing toxic pollution, and lowering energy, food, and housing costs

Washington D.C. (July 3, 2025) – Today Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released the following statement in response to the passage of the Congressional megabill gutting clean energy tax credits, raising costs for working families, and jeopardizing Americans’ health and well-being:

“Today, Congress betrayed its promise to the hardworking people of this country by passing a bill that guts clean energy tax credits, raising costs for families and businesses at a time when more than half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Creating more affordable cities that don’t price out the people who built them means investing in the tools and programs that we know lower costs - and that includes clean energy. We have seen firsthand these tax credits have made energy more reliable, more affordable, and more abundant; it has revived American manufacturing and created tens of thousands of good-paying jobs right here in our cities. By gutting clean energy tax credits, Congress is threatening to take us backwards instead of looking towards our future. As portions of our country suffer through yet another record-breaking and dangerous heat-wave, we will not let our cities be pawns of special interests. We will keep fighting the cost of living crisis that has been exacerbated by climate change.

“As mayors, we have the power and the authority to keep pushing forward on the programs and policies that will create more affordable, more prosperous, and healthier cities. Climate Mayors stand ready and able to partner with other state, local, and business leaders to unleash abundant, affordable, and clean energy, create more good-paying jobs, and build healthier, safer, and more prosperous cities nationwide.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 6/11/25 Isabelle Klein 6/11/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Responds to Trump Administration’s Rollbacks of EPA Power Plant Standards

Washington D.C. (June 11, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright responded to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement that it will roll back mercury and greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants across the country. The repeal of the two rules issued under the Clean Air Act would loosen emissions requirements for hazardous mercury by as much as 70% and eliminate pollution monitoring regulations for coal and gas-fired power plants.

“These rollbacks undermine the ability of mayors to shield their residents from harm and would allow corporations to pollute our air and water, and erode the quality of life for children and families across America,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors Executive Director. “Weakening the safeguards around toxic pollutants like mercury not only jeopardizes the health of city residents, especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods, it also hinders the ability of local leaders to build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities. The EPA has a responsibility to protect our health and environment – not eliminate the safeguards that protect us from breathing in harmful toxins every day.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Isabelle Klein 5/22/25 Isabelle Klein 5/22/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESPONDS TO SENATE MOVE ROLLING BACK CALIFORNIA’S CLEAN-AIR WAIVERS ‘A MAJOR STEP BACKWARDS.’

Washington, DC (May 22, 2025) – In response to today’s Senate vote to eliminate California’s ability to set its own clean air and emissions standards – denying a right that has been granted by the federal government to states and local governments for nearly 50 years – Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

“Today’s move by the Senate to eliminate California’s authority to establish pollution standards for cars through clean air waivers is a major step backwards for cleaner air, American innovation and global competitiveness, and a threat to state and local authority. Thanks to these waivers, California gave states and local governments across the country a blueprint for how to create a booming economy that is lowering fuel costs and boosting access to good-paying jobs while making sure people had the right to clean air free from cancer-causing pollutants.

“State and local leaders are uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the needs of their community members. Efforts to undermine their ability to act will only hurt consumers and harm public health. Our mayors know that health comes first and have seen the economic benefits that an electric vehicle transition can bring. From manufacturing jobs to lower costs, our cities are poised to continue this progress and take steps towards a healthier and more prosperous future.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 5/14/25 Georgia Panitz 5/14/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS SAYS PROPOSED HOUSE PACKAGE WILL RAISE COSTS, THREATEN JOBS OF WORKING AMERICANS

Washington, D.C. (May 14, 2025) - In response to House committees approving portions of the reconciliation package rolling back critical investments that have benefited cities nationwide, including cuts to clean energy tax credits and clawbacks to climate programs from the Inflation Reduction Act, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

"These proposed bills defy common sense - at a time when nearly half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, we should be lowering costs, not raising them. These programs and tax credits have provided a critical boost to local economies across the country, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, driving billions in private investment, and revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. If Congress goes through with these spending cuts, it’s everyday Americans who will foot the bill in the form of higher energy costs and lower job opportunities.

Clean energy is more affordable, more reliable, and better for people’s health and safety. American energy dominance and security depends on unleashing more of it. Gutting these programs would be inviting instability and chaos, hiking up energy costs at a time when Americans are demanding lower bills.

Climate Mayors across the country have seen firsthand how clean energy tax credits have benefited their communities, in red and blue states alike. Earlier this year, 133 mayors and local leaders sent a letter to Congress urging them to preserve clean energy tax credits. We stand united and firm in calling on Congress to listen to their constituents and keep these programs in place so we can keep innovating, keep people’s energy bills affordable, and build a better, more prosperous, and healthier future for American families.”

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/10/25 Georgia Panitz 4/10/25

STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS CHAIR MAYOR KATE GALLEGO RESPONDS TO WHITE HOUSE ATTEMPT TO HAMPER LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION

Phoenix, AZ (April 10, 2025) – In response to President Trump’s executive order to curb state and local authority on climate action, Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“The federal government does not have the authority to strip cities and states of their abilities to make laws that best serve their residents. Not only does this latest overreach step on local rights, it also fails to acknowledge the true costs of delaying the transition to a clean energy economy—both the enormous costs of continued environmental destruction and the political and social harm of retreating American leadership.

In Phoenix, we expect to hit record or near-record temperatures this week, demonstrating the consequences of inaction that are already at our doorstep. Instead of undermining local efforts to protect the health and safety of our residents, federal action to modernize our infrastructure and bolster our national competitiveness would be more productive. To ensure our country’s long-term prosperity, we need to double down on investments in advanced manufacturing that will deliver a clean energy economy, grid resilience, and workforce development pathways that prepare our residents for good-paying jobs in emerging industries.

Climate Mayors will continue to represent the best interests of our communities and work with state partners to advance policies that will bring economic security, health and safety to our cities and our country.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/9/25 Georgia Panitz 4/9/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Gallego Calls on HHS Secretary to Protect Program Helping Americans Keep the Air Conditioning on in Summer

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been pivotal in helping 6 million Americans keep their homes cool amidst skyrocketing bills from record breaking heat waves, including in Phoenix where 2024 saw a record-breaking 113 consecutive days of 100 degrees or higher.

Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2025) - Following Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s visit to Phoenix, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“American cities experienced the hottest summer on record last year. It’s our responsibility to make sure households across the country can stay safe and healthy when temperatures climb. From desert cities in the Southwest to coastal cities in the Northeast, communities across the country are impacted by deadly summer heatwaves. The Trump administration must honor its commitment to support working families by doubling down on – and not dismantling – critical programs like LIHEAP. Here in Maricopa County, nearly 36,000 households rely on LIHEAP for their energy bills.

“There is nothing wasteful about ensuring families can keep their lights on and air conditioning running during the hottest months of the year. I strongly urge Secretary Kennedy to swiftly reinstate LIHEAP so that Phoenix families— and the many people nationwide who rely on this assistance— have the resources they need to stay safe in extreme weather.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/7/25 Georgia Panitz 4/7/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors on Trump Administration Cuts to National Disaster Response

As weather disasters increase in frequency and strength, cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and endanger the lives of Americans, U.S. cities need a strong federal partner to build more resilient communities, help adequately prepare for and recover from weather disasters, and keep people safe

Washington, D.C. (April 7, 2025) - In response to a slew of action from President Trump putting life-saving programs and disaster recovery for local governments at risk, including an executive order shifting responsibility for disaster preparedness from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to state and local governments, layoffs of FEMA staffers, and reports that FEMA is ending its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program - the biggest program helping U.S. communities and cities plan and prepare for weather disaster events including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires - Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement below:

“Disaster events aren’t going away - in fact they are only getting worse. Mayors are the first line of defense when disaster strikes, and have seen firsthand the profound impacts on their communities. From wildfires in Los Angeles to record hurricanes in Florida and North Carolina, and rising heat across the country, the effects of climate change are here. Meeting this moment demands a whole-of-government response; we cannot be walking away from the critical federal resources and programs we need to help cities plan for disaster events and keep Americans safe.

FEMA is an essential partner for our mayors and cities, providing critical medical evacuation assistance, urban search and rescue teams, and satellite and ground communications support - all of which can help save more lives when a disaster strikes. When a winter storm hit Kentucky in February and caused deadly foods, FEMA provided critical, individual assistance and additional life-saving personnel to help flood victims. If the Trump administration abandons its responsibility to help communities plan for, respond, and recover from weather disasters, it’s the American people that will have to foot the bill - and cities in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas will pay the highest price.

To honor their obligations to the American people and save lives, the Trump administration must reform - not eliminate - FEMA, restore the BRIC program, and ensure FEMA has the resources and capacity it needs to support cities in their efforts to protect their communities before, during, and after crises. Climate Mayors are ready and willing to work with Congress to make the improvements to FEMA we need to ensure the country is prepared to deal with what will surely be another record-breaking and devastating summer.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 3/12/25 Georgia Panitz 3/12/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s EPA Rollback of Key Environmental and Public Health Protections

Washington D.C. (March 12, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright condemned the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) plans to rollback critical protections that limit air pollution, ensure clean waterways, eliminate dangerous chemicals, and protect the environment and human health:

“With this walkback of bedrock laws that keep us safe, the Trump administration is abandoning its pledge to provide for the health and well-being of our communities. The rollback of more than 31 environmental and health protections is a setback to all the great progress local leaders have made in building healthier, cleaner, and safer cities. This only benefits polluters looking for a blank check to keep emitting harmful and toxic chemicals – prioritizing unrestrained greed over the health of the American people.

“Our mayors will remain steadfast in their commitment to the safety of their residents and ensuring everyone can breathe clean air and drink clean water. The proposed rollbacks from the Trump Administration are an intentional effort to create chaos and will result in serious and immediate implications for communities’ health and harm our environment and economy.”

About Climate Mayors

Georgia Panitz 3/5/25 Georgia Panitz 3/5/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Pays Tribute to Former Chair and Houston Mayor, Congressman Sylvester Turner

With news Congressman Turner passed away, Climate Mayors remembers the former Chair as a long-standing climate champion, committed to making sure Houstonians and Americans across the country could breathe clean air and enjoy the benefits of a clean energy economy

Washington D.C. (March 5, 2025) – Today, the Chair of Climate Mayors, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and the Executive Director of Climate Mayors, Kate Wright, released a joint statement following the passing of U.S. House Representative Sylvester Turner (TX-18) at 70, the former Houston Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair:

“On behalf of nearly 350 Climate Mayors and our board of directors we grieve the loss of an incredible public servant and dedicated climate champion in Congressman Turner today. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and lifelong dedication to serving the people of Houston. As mayor, Sylvester Turner served as Chair of Climate Mayors in 2021. During this time, he set an example for other US mayors and convened and inspired our membership around critical issues such as clean energy and climate resiliency and represented Climate Mayors on the global stage at COP26. Locally, he led the fight for ambitious climate action that always put Houstonians’ economic and physical well-being first. Current and future generations of Houstonians in the nation’s fourth most populous city will continue to experience the benefits of his climate-forward projects and programs, including launching Houston’s first Climate Action Plan and committing to becoming carbon neutral by 2050; preventing illegal dumping through the One Clean Houston campaign; and providing over 20,000 jobs for young adults through his Hire Houston Youth program, focusing predominantly on serving lower income neighborhoods and providing them with a path to a more economically secure future.

“It was an honor to work alongside Congressman Turner. We will continue taking his vision forward and ensure cities across the country continue to meet the needs of our residents through policies that reduce toxic pollution, create better-paying jobs for Americans, and build safer, healthier, and more equitable cities.”

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 1/28/25 Georgia Panitz 1/28/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors on OMB Call to Freeze All Federal Funding

Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2025) – Following the order to pause all federal grants and loans issued by the White House Office of Budget Management, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

“This pause on federal grants and loans immediately jeopardizes livelihoods and threatens the safety and job security of Americans nationwide and is in direct violation of the power granted to Congress by the US Constitution. Federal investment has transformed communities, creating over 400,000 jobs and igniting over $400 billion in new investments to make our country’s energy more affordable — in just the last two years. Americans are facing staggering costs of living— now is the time to protect these well-paying jobs and the progress we’ve made in reducing pollution, lowering energy bills and growing our economy — not prevent it. Restricting promised funds will undoubtedly harm communities and businesses across the country.

“As we face an increasingly unpredictable climate with unprecedented fires, floods and storms that have left communities facing inconceivable hardship, it’s more important than ever for Americans to be able to access critical funding and relief from expensive climate disasters. Putting all federal funds on hold will cause countless families to face unmanageable expenses – including in areas where support is needed the most.

“Climate Mayors will continue to fight for mayors and their communities to ensure they have the resources and support needed to continue protecting the safety and livelihoods of all Americans.”

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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 1/20/25 Georgia Panitz 1/20/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors to Uphold Paris Agreement Commitment and Accelerate U.S. Subnational Climate Ambition and Global Economic Competitiveness

Washington, D.C. (January 20, 2025) – Today, President Donald Trump announced his intention to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change. Under the Paris Agreement, countries have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius in order to prevent severe climate impacts.

In response, Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“Regardless of the federal government’s actions, Climate Mayors are not backing down on our commitment to the Paris Agreement. The cost of inaction is simply too high. As we have recently seen from the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, extreme summer temperatures in Phoenix, and hard-hitting hurricanes in North Carolina and Florida, the effects of our changing climate are at our doorstep. Now, more than ever, we must accelerate our work to protect our communities, lower energy bills, create good-paying local jobs, and maintain our nation’s economic competitiveness by modernizing our infrastructure and investing in emerging markets.

“Our constituents are looking to us to meet the moment and deliver meaningful solutions, which is why we’re expanding our work with partners across the United States, from philanthropy and business leaders to members of Congress and governors. We're building an implementation plan that meets our targets under the Paris Agreement and ensures that our cities remain resilient and prosperous for future generations.”

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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 12/19/24 Georgia Panitz 12/19/24

Statement: Climate Mayors Welcome New U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) to Target 61-66% of National Emissions Reductions Putting U.S. Cities on a Path Towards Economic Prosperity

WASHINGTON, D.C.  (December 19, 2024) – To establish a new path forward in tackling climate change, the Biden Administration has released a new U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) target of 61-66% economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reductions by 2035. On the ninth anniversary of the U.S. joining the Paris Agreement, Climate Mayors welcomes this latest target which will be essential in guiding national and local efforts to address the climate crisis head-on and ensuring America’s economic competitiveness globally. The new NDC sets a bold vision for reducing emissions, supporting clean energy growth, and building healthy communities. Cities and local leaders will be essential for delivering on this vision and pledge to continue and accelerate efforts to ensure that every resident has what they need to thrive: clean air and water, a safer place to live, and opportunities for good-paying jobs.

Climate Mayors and nearly 350 U.S. Mayors have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. We’ve also seen how advancing clean energy projects, efficiency programs, and transportation initiatives in our cities have not only advanced the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but have delivered a host of benefits for communities. As a result of city-wide plans to achieve ambitious local targets, thousands of well-paying green jobs have proliferated in American cities and neighborhoods are experiencing less air pollution, better health outcomes, and lower energy costs. Collaboration between local, state, private, and philanthropic partners will continue to prove central in delivering on our goals and ratcheting up an all-of-society approach to climate action. Our mayors remain committed to building cities of the future that effectively meet the needs of constituents and continue to reduce harmful emissions under this NDC.

“Today’s announcement of a new U.S. NDC serves as an important goalpost for our unwavering ambition as subnational actors continue to lead the fight against climate change and advance America’s economic competitiveness,” said Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright. “Our membership of over 350 U.S. Mayors is ready to do its part to achieve our national target and build on the progress we’ve made over the last decade. Cities across the country are putting the best interests of their communities first by investing in advanced energy and water efficiency programs, more equitable access to green infrastructure, and clean energy solutions that are cutting emissions – further securing a healthy and economically prosperous future for our communities.”

11/6/24 11/6/24

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Reaffirm Commitment to Local Climate Action and Pledge Continued Ambition Under Second Trump Administration

Washington, DC (November 6, 2024) – Today, Mayor Justin M. Bibb, Mayor of Cleveland and Chair of Climate Mayors – a network of nearly 350 mayors demonstrating local climate leadership through meaningful action – issued the following statement in response to the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States:

“As Chair of Climate Mayors, I’d like to reaffirm that our network of nearly 350 U.S. mayors are steadfast in our commitment to accelerating local climate action and meeting our established national goals under the Paris Climate Agreement during the second administration of President Donald Trump. Mayors engage closely with their communities every day and understand that we cannot afford the costs of exiting the Paris Agreement as was done in 2017. Climate Mayors nationwide have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. Which is why we are doubling down on climate action and continuing to reduce emissions, support clean energy growth, and build healthier communities. Our commitment to combating the existential threat of climate change and protecting the federal legislation that provides cities with vital funding remains unwavering.

“By utilizing funding and provisions within the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, our city leaders have launched us on a trajectory toward a sustainable future. Despite 60% of Inflation Reduction Act projects benefiting Republican districts, conservative congressional leaders continue to threaten our progress with sweeping rollbacks of much-needed support. These clean energy provisions have sparked a surge in clean energy manufacturing, private investment, and job creation, prompting 18 Republican members of Congress to urge leadership to keep them in place. As we enter the Trump-Vance administration, Climate Mayors will continue to fight for legislation that benefits hard-working Americans and protects the most vulnerable populations by engaging key partners, policymakers, and stakeholders in our fight for just and innovative legislation.

“We understand the urgent responsibility to deliver on U.S. climate action in the absence of national leadership. Our members will work alongside states, businesses and other sectors to ensure our cities are beacons of climate progress.”

Through the collective power of the network, cities can forge a path toward a sustainable and just tomorrow for all. As the big tent for local climate leaders, Mayors can demonstrate their commitment to keeping the U.S. on track through subnational climate leadership and benefit from the support of our growing network of Climate Mayors at https://www.climatemayors.org/join-us.

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About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 6/28/24 Georgia Panitz 6/28/24

Statement: Climate Mayors Condemn Reversal of the Historic Chevron vs. NRDC Ruling - A Major Setback For Environmental Protections

Washington, DC (June 24, 2024) – Today, the conservative supermajority on the Supreme Court ruled 6 to 3 to reverse the Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council ruling – one of the most cited judgements in American law. Agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency have unique technical expertise to inform, carefully consider, and interpret ambiguous laws to protect public health and the environment. This reversal of the Chevron doctrine shifts these regulatory powers back to federal judges who do not have the technical, scientific, medical, or other types of expertise to make thorough rulings.

The impact of this decision could mean the reversal of hundreds of rules that protect air and water pollution, protect people from toxic chemicals, and lessen the worsening impacts of the climate crisis.

In response, Climate Mayors issued the following statement:

“Climate Mayors wholeheartedly condemns this decision as it will upend 40 years of precedence and risk climate and environmental progress during a time where our nation should be making informed decisions to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis and environmental degradation. Not only does this decision put millions of Americans at risk of dangerous rollbacks to environmental protections, it also undermines the expertise of federal agencies that were established to protect the health of people and the planet.

“Despite this judicial setback, Climate Mayors is proud to be represented by local leaders who are committed to continuing to seek out expertise in decision making and driving cities toward a clean, healthy and climate safe future. Mayors will continue to do everything possible to deliver healthy air to breathe, water to drink, and a thriving green economy to support families and businesses.”

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About Climate Mayors:

Climate mayors is a bipartisan network that has mobilized more than 750 U.S. mayors since 2014, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities. representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, the climate mayors coalition reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, please visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn. For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com. Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 6/25/24 Georgia Panitz 6/25/24

Statement: Climate Mayors and C40 Cities Call for a FY25 Spending Bill That Invests in Healthy Communities and Addresses Growing Risks of Extreme Heat

Washington, DC (June 24, 2024) – As negotiations for 2025 fiscal year commence on Capitol Hill, Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of over 350 U.S. mayors committed to climate action; and C40 Cities, a network of mayors of nearly 100 world-leading cities, including 14 cities in the United States, wrote a letter to Congressional and Appropriations leaders urging them to pass a FY25 spending bill that invests in a sustainable and just future for Americans. The organizations also called for the inclusion of the Extreme Heat Emergency Act as extreme heat and record temperatures strike communities across the country.

On behalf of the organizations, Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors, and Kate Johnson, Interim Regional Director, North America at C40 Cities issued the following statement:

“With sweltering weather across the country proving the need to address the climate crisis, Congress should prioritize investing in resilient infrastructure, reducing energy burden, and increasing energy efficient housing – all while empowering local governments to address community issues directly. In order to move forward in these ways, Congress must also protect the foundation of today’s green investment – the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

“Climate deniers continue to attempt to gut the most historic climate legislation ever passed – legislation that is delivering good jobs, reduced costs, and improved health to people all across the country. Mayors and local governments are seeing firsthand how the investments from the IRA and BIL are already boosting local economies and investing in environmental justice communities. From tax rebates on clean home energy to millions in grants for clean energy projects in vulnerable communities, these investments are working for America.

“The future cannot wait – and we cannot ignore the extreme weather events happening today. With heat waves – the leading cause of disaster deaths in the U.S. – sweeping the nation for two consecutive weeks, we also call for the inclusion of H.R. 3965, Extreme Heat Emergency Act, which would add “extreme heat” as a disaster that FEMA could allocate funds for relief. Wildfire smoke and heat waves are only continuing to worsen and without giving FEMA the authority to deliver aid and relief with a federal declaration of disaster, Americans will needlessly suffer.

“We must not only meet this critical moment to invest in the American people and the economy, but also continue the momentum to build more resilient and healthy communities for years to come.”

In the letter, Climate Mayors and C40 Cities called for:

Supporting and empowering local governments in addressing community energy burdens through direct, flexible funding;
Increasing the EPA’s core capacities to protect public health and the environment;
Increasing funding to grow support for climate-resilient infrastructure and update federal response to mitigate future climate-related disasters. And the inclusion of H.R. 3965, Extreme Heat Emergency Act, which adds “extreme heat” as an eligible disaster under the STAFFORD Act, in the final appropriations bills;
Increasing funding to reduce energy burdens and help protect communities of color and low income constituents with increasingly frequent extreme weather emergencies;
Supporting funding for climate friendly housing to build new, resilient, and energy efficient affordable housing in cities; and
Avoiding any rescissions from the Inflation Reduction Act or Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Read the full letter here.

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About Climate Mayors:

About C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group:

C40 is a network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities working to deliver the urgent action needed right now to confront the climate crisis and create a future where everyone, everywhere, can thrive. Mayors of C40 cities are committed to using a science-based and people-focused approach to help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C and build healthy, equitable and resilient communities. We work alongside a broad coalition of representatives from labour, business, the youth climate movement and civil society to support mayors to halve emissions by 2030 and help phase out fossil use while increasing urban climate resilience and equity.The current co-chairs of C40 are Mayor Sadiq Khan of London, United Kingdom and Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of Freetown, Sierra Leone; three-term Mayor of New York City Michael R. Bloomberg serves as President of the Board. C40’s work is made possible by our three strategic funders: Bloomberg Philanthropies, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and Realdania.To learn more about the work of C40 and our cities, please visit our website or follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

5/31/24 5/31/24

Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network Announce Workshops to Catalyze Local Uptake of Federal Climate Funding

Six cities to receive in-depth support for engaging local communities and coordinating city efforts to enact sustainability projects

May 31, 2024 - Today, Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), with support from the Rockefeller Foundation, have announced the Catalyzing Local Climate Action Workshop series, an initiative aimed at supporting cities to optimize federal climate funding.

Six cities (Boise, ID; Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Jacksonville, FL; Knoxville, TN; and Los Angeles, CA) have been selected to host mayor-led workshops to advance their ability to access and implement funding made available through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The workshops will support cities navigating the funding streams, engage community partners, and identify lessons learned to share with other cities seeking federal funding.

With billions of dollars available for climate action through the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, cities have an enormous opportunity to meet this moment by advancing local projects that reduce emissions, improve residents’ health, and build stronger communities. However, due to the complexity of the funding streams, many cities report challenges to taking full advantage of these opportunities. The Catalyzing Local Climate Action Workshop series will help cities navigate and utilize the funding and deliver on the transformative potential to build a greener future.

Over the next year, the selected cities will receive tailored workshops customized to their specific needs and priorities. The mayor-led workshops will address challenges within internal city organization and broader community engagement around federal climate funding opportunities.

The workshops will be facilitated by national subject matter experts who will provide technical assistance and guidance. Cities will receive additional follow-up support aimed at connecting local leaders with further technical assistance opportunities to ensure sustained progress and implementation of activities identified during the workshops.

For any questions, please contact:

Nidhi Shashidhara

US Federal Affairs Project Officer, C40 Cities

nshashidhara@c40.org