Gavin Newsom's China trip sparks controversy and concerns over U.S.-China relations

California Governor Gavin Newsom's trip to China, initially focused on climate change, also provided an opportunity for discussions on other diplomatic concerns such as forced labor in Xinjiang, repression in Hong Kong, and fentanyl exports. Newsom's engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other officials on these issues demonstrates his ability to use climate as a conversation starter for thornier topics typically handled by Washington. The meeting also paves the way for a potential meeting between Xi and President Joe Biden in San Francisco next month, signaling a potential strengthening of U.S.-China relations.