America Is All In Doubles Down on Commitment to Paris Agreement Despite Trump Withdrawal

Cities, states, businesses, and local institutions will continue to meet our climate goals by investing in clean energy solutions that grow our economy, lower energy bills for families, bring good-paying jobs, and reduce our emissions.

January 20, 2025
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Washington, DC, January 20, 2025  – Today, America Is All In – the largest coalition of climate leaders in the United States representing nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population and approximately three-quarters of U.S. GDP –  shared statements from its Managing Co-Chair, Leaders Circle members, and other members in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement again. 

Gina McCarthy, former White House National Climate Advisor, 13th U.S. EPA Administrator, and Managing Co-Chair of America Is All In said: 
"If the Trump administration truly wants America to lead the global economy, become energy independent, and create good-paying American jobs, affordable energy, and clean air - then they must stay focused on growing our clean energy industry. Clean technologies are driving down energy costs for people all across our country. And if they want to be tough on China, don't punish U.S. automakers and hard working Americans by handing our clean car keys to the Chinese.  

"The United States must continue to show leadership on the international stage if we want to have any say in how trillions of dollars in financial investments, policies, and decisions are made that will shape the course of our economy and the world's ability to fight climate change. Our leaders have to face reality - climate impacts are a clear and present danger. It is not the time to bury our heads in the sand and pretend that more and more devastating, dangerous, and costly disasters won't be heading our way; they are and they will get worse if we fail to embrace a clean energy future.

"By leaving the Paris Agreement, this Administration is abdicating its responsibility to protect the American people and our national security. But rest assured, our states, cities, businesses, and local institutions stand ready to pick up the baton of U.S. climate leadership and do all they can - despite federal complacency - to continue the shift to a clean energy economy.  Day-in and day-out state and local efforts will be focused on delivering good-paying jobs, lowering energy bills, cutting pollution, and protecting our health. Just as it did during the last Trump Administration, Bloomberg's America Is All In coalition will work with partners across our country and abroad to ensure we meet our responsibility to stay focused on achieving our climate targets. We cannot walk away from our obligation to protect Americans from the traumatic disasters that threaten our security, our health, our lives and livelihoods, and our economic prosperity.”

Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego:
“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.”

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson:
“Chicago and our peer cities are, and will remain, at the forefront of climate action. As the new federal administration abandons its duty to protect the planet from environmental collapse, Chicago will not waver from our duty to protect our communities’ health, safety and well-being. This means making low-cost, clean energy accessible to all, creating good-paying jobs in the green economy and preparing our neighborhoods to withstand more frequent and extreme weather events. Regardless of federal action, Chicago reaffirms our commitment to our planet, our people and our neighborhoods and vows to make every effort to drastically reduce carbon emissions, minimize our reliance on fossil fuels and leverage every opportunity to enhance the quality of life of our residents.”

La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds, Co-Chair of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative:
"As Mayor of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and a National Co-Chair for the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative, I urge the President to recognize what’s at stake if the United States withdraws from the Paris Climate Accords. 

For U.S. farmers and manufacturers this isn’t just about policy. It’s about survival. Nations in Europe and Asia often prioritize products with low carbon footprints. Leaving the Paris Accords means farmers face a very real risk of reduced demand or stricter import regulations. Farmers in our region already battle unpredictable weather, devastating floods, and droughts that wreak havoc on their crops and livelihoods. They cannot afford to lose access to global markets through an ill-advised exit from the Paris Accords.

Farmers as well as manufacturers face the real threat of export penalties. As more countries implement carbon tariffs, U.S. businesses would face higher costs and lose ground in competitive global markets. That’s money and opportunity flowing away from our workers and into the hands of others. 

Staying in the Paris agreement isn’t just the responsible choice—it’s a smart one. It opens doors to innovation, funding, and technologies that can transform our cities and towns, protect our river systems, and create a sustainable future for generations to come. 

We simply can’t afford to turn away from this global agreement. We absolutely can’t afford to jeopardize the $164 billion in annual agricultural commodities that support Mississippi River economies.  I urge the President and this administration to reconsider withdrawal. Regardless of that decision, with MRCTI, the Mississippi River will continue to have a voice at the table, fighting for sustainable U.S. trade, fighting for our manufacturers and farmers, fighting for our communities."

Dr. Robert Bullard, Founding Director, The Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice, and All In Leaders Circle Member:
“Once again, it will be Black and Brown communities already overburdened by pollution that will pay the highest price at the hands of this short-sighted decision from the second Trump administration. Exiting the Paris Agreement will exacerbate environmental burdens faced by those who are least responsible for the climate crisis—but feel the hurt and pain first, worse, and longest. Local leaders must not only keep ambitious climate actions alive—they must also keep centering solutions around environmental and climate justice with the goal of protecting the health and well-being of frontline communities and our most vulnerable people and places.

Climate change is the number one existential threat to humanity. This moment demands bold leadership and an unwavering commitment to justice. The fight against climate change is inseparable from the fight for racial and economic justice and human rights. By stepping up where the federal government has failed, local leaders and communities have the power to shape a future that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and fairness. We cannot afford to lose ground—our planet and our people depend on immediate, inclusive, and transformative action. We must continue to lead and push back against greed, false solutions and ignorance that created this human-induced crisis in the first place.”

Ali Santore, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, Providence and All In Leaders Circle Member:
“At Providence, we know that climate change endangers the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans. And we recognize that reducing the risk will depend on developing solutions, in partnership across the United States. We can make the air we breathe cleaner and people healthier today by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing more resilient communities. As part of America Is All In, we’re committed to stepping up and doing our part while encouraging all Americans to protect the health of our people and planet.”

Shelley Schlenker, Chief Advocacy Officer, CommonSpirit Health and All In Leaders Circle Member:
“At CommonSpirit Health, we witness firsthand how extreme weather events and disasters are taking a toll on the health of our communities—especially the most vulnerable. As healthcare providers, we have a responsibility to respond, not only with care and compassion, but also to do all we can to reduce our impact to the environment and support community resilience. We will continue to advance our Climate Action Plan and our commitment to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.”

Ceres CEO and President Mindy Lubber:
“American investors and businesses depend on consistency, reliability, and predictability. While the U.S. took the disappointing step to exit the Paris Agreement, the rest of the world remains committed to its goals, and private-sector leaders and U.S. states are steadfast in their efforts to achieve them. The U.S. continues to be well-positioned to deliver the necessary technologies and innovative solutions, thanks in large part to federal clean energy incentives. We must preserve these incentives, or we will miss out on an enormous economic opportunity to create more jobs, lower utility costs, and rebuild the manufacturing sector and supply chains. Now is not the time for America to cede its position as one of the best places in the world to build new energy technologies and solutions that are in growing global demand.”

We Mean Business: 
"Companies need market stability, policy consistency and predictability to make long-term business investments, and a shifting policy direction discourages investment in America. The U.S. federal government’s step away from international policy discussions that are shaping the clean energy future is a disservice to American businesses and people, opening the door for other major economies to attract greater investment and talent. Other countries will continue to accelerate their transition to clean energy because it makes good business and economic sense.  

We look forward to the day we can welcome the U.S. back into the Paris Agreement. In the meantime, businesses, investors, cities and regions along with countries around the world will continue to go all in for the Paris Agreement. We stand ready to work with the U.S. government on advancing the transition to clean energy and supporting business readiness to climate impacts."

Wawa Gatheru, Founder and Executive Director, Black Girl Environmentalist, and All In Leaders Circle Member: 
“The Trump administration’s decision is disappointing but unsurprising. Young people deserve a livable planet, and it is up to all of us to be the change we need to secure a healthy and safe future. We must band together at the local level to reduce emissions and protect disadvantaged communities from the dangerous impacts of our continued reliance on harmful fossil fuels. The power of our collective efforts cannot be underestimated, and I know America Is All In’s members are ready to answer the call. We have the creativity, the tools, and the will to take decisive action and make sure young people everywhere get to enjoy a safe and prosperous planet.” 

Millard House II, Superintendent, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS):
“The impacts of the climate crisis are being felt right here in Prince George’s County, and we cannot ignore our responsibility to act. Protecting the future of our nearly 132,000 students means taking bold steps to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our schools’ resilience. We remain committed to this work and are encouraged by the actions of other leaders across the country. Collective action is key to ensuring a sustainable future, and we will continue to do our part with urgency and resolve.”

Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent, Denver Public Schools:
“Denver Public Schools remain steadfast in our commitment to conserve and manage resources to address environmental impact, social development, and economic prosperity. Our students recognize the threat that climate change presents to their futures, and the work we do together is what will make the clean energy transition one of the greatest opportunities of their lifetimes. At Denver Public Schools, we will keep delivering on our extensive, and nation-leading student-led climate action plan to reduce our emissions by at least 90% by 2050."

Dr. Karin Hilgersom, President of Truckee Meadows Community College and All In Leaders Circle Member:
“Truckee Meadows Community College is still in! Clean energy is transforming Northern Nevada into a hub of progress and opportunity, and we are at the forefront of this exciting growth. Through TMCC workforce training and education programs, we help provide the skilled workforce for our clean energy industry, driving innovation and shaping the future. Jobs created through vital partnerships strengthen our regional economy, ensure prosperity for Northern Nevadans, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet. Together, we are building a brighter future for our community and the nation.”

Franco Montalto, Ph.D, PE, Director, Urban Climate Change Research Network – North American Hub, Drexel University: 
"Universities are places where the next generation of professionals learn the relevance of their skills in the global efforts to keep greenhouse gas emissions within planetary limits, to adapt communities to the climatic change that has already occurred, and to connect climate action to parallel change needed in sustainability and health. Students want their professors to address climate change in their classes, and they want their country to address climate change in the world.”

Peter Buck and Brandi Robinson, Co-Directors of Penn State’s Local Climate Action Program:
"Penn State’s Local Climate Action Program recognizes that anthropogenic climate change is a pressing issue for Pennsylvanians. As an applied program in climate planning, we assist Pennsylvania’s communities to draw down greenhouse gas emissions through place-based and data-driven technical assistance, workforce development, and education. As a program in the home state of America’s constitutional democratic republic, we support the fair treatment and equal involvement of all people, access to reliable and valid information, and pathways for well-being and economic security and prosperity. Our work aligns with international, national, and state-level targets and the priority areas of Pennsylvania’s Priority Climate Action Plan. We remain stalwart in our commitment to embody climate hope through climate action.”

Penn State Climate Consortium: 
"Climate change remains an urgent concern for Pennsylvania, our nation, and our world, and Penn State remains a trusted ally in working with industry and community partners in finding innovative, evidence-based, solutions that will create a more prosperous, secure, and resilient society for all. Through our operations, Penn State is moving forward with advancing Penn State's sustainability and climate goals, having achieved a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, including 28% in the last 5 years. Through our research, we are catalyzing researchers, entrepreneurs, and communities to accelerate solutions at scale.  And, through our outreach and educational activities, we remain resolute that the communities we serve have untapped potential to be leaders charting a different, more hopeful course."

John B. King Jr., Chancellor, State University of New York (SUNY): 
“From statewide flooding, including several buildings at SUNY’s Stony Brook University last fall, to smoke from Canadian wildfires in the North Country, to drought in the Hudson Valley, New Yorkers are increasingly feeling the effects of climate change. SUNY is committed to preparing our students to live in a world where climate change is a fact of everyday life and there is no question that our system will stay the course on climate action. To address these issues, SUNY is preparing a workforce capable of addressing the impacts of climate change while promoting renewable and sustainable energy solutions. SUNY’s progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to date and commitment to accelerating our progress can serve as a model for cities and communities across the country. With 40% of state-owned buildings, our system has the capacity to implement clean energy solutions and sustainable practices in its operations with institutions that are at the forefront of creating a more sustainable future for all New Yorkers.”

Tom Linfield, Madison Children's Museum:
"Climate change remains the number one threat to children's health and long-term well-being. Our job is to help children and families thrive, even as the world warms. Madison Children's Museum committed to modeling sustainability leadership nearly three decades ago and our commitments to children don't change just because governments do. We know that when we create a world where children truly flourish, we are all better for it."

Kim McIntyre, Executive Director of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership:
"Climate change is the greatest threat to the future of our planet, of people, and of our ocean and freshwater systems. For the well-being of people and all life on Earth, we must continue to take immediate and significant action to address the climate crisis. Climate action produces local economic benefits, new American jobs, strengthens public lands and waters, and engages current and future generations of Americans to rebuild our infrastructure and create a clean-energy future. We must also ensure that communities bearing the brunt of climate impacts are fully involved in designing equitable strategies for a path forward. Members of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership play unique and powerful roles in promoting climate solutions. We are trusted science-based communicators, conservation stewards, and local business leaders. We are still very much committed to reducing our own greenhouse gas emissions, inspiring our audiences to take action, and working with our communities, government leaders, business partners, and public to meet these challenges and accelerate the pace of progress for our planet. We are still in."

Robert W. Davidson, President & CEO of the Seattle Aquarium: 
“We persist in our ambitious efforts to be a regenerative aquarium and fulfill all of our climate goals. The recent addition to our campus, the Ocean Pavilion, operates 100% fossil fuel free, and we advocate for state and federal policies to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and build community resilience. We are committed to continuing this vital work for our planet, our one world ocean, and a resilient future for all.”

Patrick Hamilton, Fellow, Science Museum of Minnesota and All In Leaders Circle Member:
“Every state has great potential to participate in the rapidly advancing clean energy economy. America Is All In’s subnational partners remain committed to working together to realize these broad and enormous economic and employment opportunities for all Americans, and in so doing significantly address climate change.”

Scott Pollock, Executive Director, Minnesota Marine Art Museum: 
"The Minnesota Marine Art Museum is doubling down on our efforts to put our climate action plans into place by adding a new position on staff, an Associate Curator of Clean Water and Climate, who will help our organization deepen our engagement work with audiences around climate action and build a culture of climate consciousness for the next seven generations, establish networks and deepen relationships in an effort to build an all-of-society approach to combating climate change and direct our investments and operations in renewable energy sources so our local economies prosper with affordable clean energy."

Danielle Sakowski, Program Manager, Environment and Culture Partners, and America Is All In Coalition Partner:
“At Environment & Culture Partners, we recognize the essential role of the cultural sector in driving climate action at both local and national levels. Collaborative efforts from all sectors of civil society are crucial in addressing the global challenge of climate change. The local leaders in cities, states, and our cultural institutions are driving down their climate emissions, enacting practices that model and encourage society-wide climate action, and partnering with national governments to scale global change.”
 

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About America Is All In
America Is All In is the most expansive coalition of leaders ever assembled in support of climate action in the United States. Mobilizing thousands of U.S. cities, states, tribal nations, businesses, schools, and faith, health, and cultural institutions, the coalition is focused on pushing and partnering with the federal government to develop an ambitious, all-in national climate strategy that meets the urgency of the climate crisis; scaling climate action around the country to accelerate the transition to a 100 percent clean energy economy; and promoting the leadership of non-federal actors on the world stage.

Led by the U.N. Secretary General’s Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions Michael R. Bloomberg, former Washington Governor Jay Inslee, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, Apple Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives Lisa Jackson, and former White House National Climate Advisor and 13th U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy, America Is All In is driving a nationwide movement to cut U.S. emissions in half or more by 2030 from 2005 levels and reach net zero emissions by 2050, while guarding against the impacts of climate disruption.

Alongside whole-of-government action on climate, America Is All In champions a whole-of-society mobilization to deliver the transformational change that science demands, with the goal of a healthy, prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future. To learn more or get involved, visit www.americaisallin.com and follow us on X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.


MEDIA CONTACTS:
Siham Zniber
America Is All In
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Avery Cullinan
America Is All In
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