Trump Attacks Newsom Over U.K. Clean Energy Pact
Trump denounced Gov. Gavin Newsom after Newsom signed a clean energy MOU with U.K. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband that could involve nearly $1 billion in investment.
Overview
On February 16, 2026, President Donald Trump told Politico that the U.K. should not be dealing with Gov. Gavin Newsom and called him "Newscum" and a "loser".
Newsom signed a memorandum of understanding in London with U.K. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to deepen cooperation on clean energy technologies including offshore wind.
A source close to Miliband called the meeting productive for clean energy jobs and investment, while a Newsom spokesperson accused Trump of siding with coal and Big Oil.
The MOU and related visits were linked to nearly a billion dollars in investment from Octopus Energy and highlighted California's economy as the world's fourth-largest, officials said.
Newsom, viewed as a possible 2028 presidential contender, said California will continue to press climate action as he pursues further international partnerships including a recent pact with Ukraine's Lviv region.
Analysis
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Sources (6)
FAQ
The MOU, signed on February 16, 2026, by Governor Gavin Newsom and UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, deepens cooperation on clean energy technologies like offshore wind, energy storage, grid modernization, carbon management, transport decarbonization, and climate resilience to boost investment, jobs, and sustainable development.
Octopus Energy announced nearly $1 billion in investments in California clean-tech companies and projects focused on clean technologies and nature-based solutions, following Newsom's meeting with the company.
Trump called Newsom 'Newscum' and a 'loser,' denounced the UK-California clean energy deal as 'inappropriate,' warned the UK against involvement, criticized California's infrastructure like high-speed rail, and claimed people are leaving the state.
Key areas include clean energy technologies (offshore wind, hydrogen), energy storage, grid efficiency, decarbonization of buildings and transport, carbon management, financing climate investments, and environment/agriculture resilience like biodiversity and water management.
History
3 sources