What's Happening?
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is leading a U.S. delegation of over 120 state, local, and cross-sector leaders to the 31st U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, from November 9 to November 20, 2026. The delegation, organized
by the U.S. Climate Alliance, America Is All In, and Climate Mayors, aims to demonstrate the strength of U.S. subnational climate leadership and action. Governor Lujan Grisham is joined by America Is All In Chair Gina McCarthy, Mayor Vicki Veenker of Palo Alto, California, and Mayor Janet Cowell of Raleigh, North Carolina, among other U.S. governors, mayors, and officials. The delegation will participate in key conversations and programming at the America Is All In Pavilion, highlighting U.S. subnational climate commitments and showcasing local climate solutions that aim to lower energy costs, create jobs, and reduce pollution in American communities. Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the delegation's commitment to strengthening global partnerships to address climate change.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is important because it underscores the significant role that U.S. state and local governments play in addressing climate change, even as national policies may fluctuate. By sending a large delegation to an international forum like COP31, these leaders are signaling a continued commitment to climate action on a global stage, independent of federal directives. This subnational engagement can foster international collaborations, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and attract investments in climate-friendly technologies and infrastructure within the U.S. It also demonstrates to the international community that a substantial portion of the U.S. remains dedicated to climate goals, potentially influencing global climate negotiations and agreements. For American communities, the focus on local climate solutions aims to deliver tangible benefits such as cleaner air, more affordable and clean energy, and enhanced resilience against climate disasters, directly impacting public health and economic stability.
What's Next?
The U.S. delegation will continue its participation in COP31 until November 20, engaging in various events and discussions at the America Is All In Pavilion and throughout the Antalya EXPO Center. Key programming includes the launch of the 'America’s Better Pathway Report,' which will explore research on U.S. carbon emissions and reduction pathways, and discussions on building resilient communities and thriving economies. Following the conference, the delegates are expected to bring back insights and strategies to implement or strengthen climate initiatives within their respective states and cities. The collaborations forged at COP31 could lead to new partnerships, funding opportunities, and policy adoptions aimed at accelerating climate action across the U.S. The ongoing commitment of these subnational leaders will be crucial in shaping the future of climate policy and its practical application at the local level.
Beyond the Headlines
The presence of a large U.S. subnational delegation at COP31 highlights a growing trend where cities and states are taking the lead on issues traditionally handled at the national level. This phenomenon reflects a decentralized approach to complex global challenges, driven by local needs and a desire for immediate action. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of international climate agreements when national governments may have differing priorities. The 'America Is All In' movement, which brings together diverse stakeholders, represents a powerful form of climate diplomacy that operates outside traditional federal channels. This approach can inspire other nations to empower their subnational entities in climate efforts, fostering a more distributed and resilient global response to environmental crises. The long-term success of these efforts will depend on sustained political will, effective resource allocation, and the ability to translate international commitments into measurable local impacts.
