Senate will try to block California vehicle standards that would phase out gas-powered cars

The U.S. Senate is set to vote on blocking California’s tougher vehicle emissions standards, including its plan to phase out new gas‑powered car sales by 2035. Senate Republicans, led by John Thune, are using the Congressional Review Act to reverse these rules, arguing they overreach federal authority and could create a de facto nationwide EV mandate. Democrats strongly oppose the move, with Sen. Alex Padilla threatening to hold up EPA nominations. California Governor Gavin Newsom and others defend the rules as essential for clean air and climate goals, the Associated Press has reported. The outcome remains uncertain, with some Republicans undecided.