California Gov. Gavin Newsom received a surprising debate challenge from an American sports icon, sparking public discourse over energy policy and political engagement.
“In Trump’s America, energy policy is set by the highest bidder, economics and common-sense be damned. We’ll keep chasing an all-of-the above clean energy strategy to power our future and clean our air — no matter what politicians in DC try to dictate,” Newsom wrote on X.
Phil Mickelson, 55, a California native and six-time major champion, issued the challenge, offering to meet Newsom for a town hall discussion on Sable Offshore, an oil company he has publicly supported. “If you would like to have a town hall meeting with me to discuss Sable Offshore I will meet you anytime and anyplace. Let’s discuss this openly,” Mickelson responded. He added that he had called Newsom’s office and left his number with the governor’s assistant.
Mickelson, known for his vocal political opinions, has increasingly expressed views on national issues following recent events, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk at a Utah college campus. His challenge to Newsom emerged during the Ryder Cup, after he announced his role as captain for the USA team.
Newsom criticized the Trump administration’s plan to cut funding for hydrogen projects in California and the Pacific Northwest, framing it as a threat to clean energy progress. Mickelson defended Sable Offshore, arguing that restarting offshore drilling near Santa Barbara would lower gas prices, reduce foreign dependence, create jobs, and improve the environment by curbing natural oil seepage. He cited studies from UCSB and state agencies to support his claims, calling the project a “win-win.”
The exchange followed Mickelson’s public advocacy for Sable Offshore, coinciding with a class-action lawsuit alleging securities fraud against the company. Mickelson insisted, “I genuinely want to know one single reason how Sable restarting won’t benefit every Californian,” emphasizing an open dialogue on the issue.