Gavin Newsom: California Governor Strengthens UK Ties Amid Domestic Policy Shifts
London, 22 February 2026 – California Governor Gavin Newsom has concluded a high-profile diplomatic visit to the United Kingdom, signing a landmark clean energy pact with British officials. The move comes as the Governor, now in the final years of his second term, increasingly positions California as a global leader on climate change and social regulation, despite facing fluctuating approval ratings and criticism from the Trump administration.
International Climate Partnership
In a significant expansion of California’s “sub-national” diplomacy, Governor Newsom met with UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband in London on 16 February 2026. The pair signed a new agreement to deepen ties on clean energy and sustainable development. A central highlight of the visit was the announcement of a £715 million ($1 billion) commitment from Octopus Energy to invest in California’s clean tech sector. While the deal was hailed by environmental advocates, it drew sharp criticism from President Trump, who described the agreement as “inappropriate” for a foreign government to conduct with a state governor.
Domestic Policy: Social Media and Public Safety
On the home front, Newsom has pivoted toward stricter digital regulations. This week, the Governor threw his weight behind bipartisan legislation to implement social media age restrictions, specifically backing a minimum age requirement of 16. Newsom cited his perspective as a parent, calling the protections “long overdue.”
Additionally, the Governor has continued his overhaul of the state’s justice system. Recent actions include the ongoing dismantling of death row at San Quentin, transitioning the facility toward a rehabilitation-focused model with new educational centres. He also recently authorised a £422 million ($590 million) emergency loan to support Bay Area transit systems, addressing critical infrastructure needs in Northern California.
Key Facts: Governor Gavin Newsom
The following table outlines the career milestones and current standing of the 40th Governor of California based on verified records.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gavin Christopher Newsom |
| Date of Birth | 10 October 1967 |
| Current Office | Governor of California (Assumed office 2019) |
| Previous Roles | Lieutenant Governor of California; Mayor of San Francisco |
| Recent Approval Rating | 44% Approval / 45% Disapproval (February 2026) |
| 2022 Re-election Result | 59.2% of the vote |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gavin Newsom eligible to run for Governor again?
No. Governor Newsom is currently serving his second term and is term-limited under California law. He cannot seek re-election for a third consecutive term in the next gubernatorial cycle.
What is the “UK-California Clean Energy Pact”?
It is a formal memorandum of cooperation signed in February 2026 between the State of California and the United Kingdom. It focuses on accelerating the transition to green energy, sharing climate research, and facilitating multi-million pound investments in technology like offshore wind and grid decarbonisation.
How has the Governor responded to federal criticism?
Governor Newsom remains a vocal critic of the Trump administration. To date, California has filed over 50 lawsuits against federal policies. Most recently, Newsom called a special legislative session specifically designed to “protect California values” and safeguard state laws against federal interference.