Oregon Public Broadcasting

The governors of California and Washington say they're seeking to change America's image in the eyes of the world at the Copenhagen climate conference this week.

Democrat Chris Gregoire spoke to reporters on a conference call from the Danish capital Wednesday.

She says in speeches and meetings she's tried to correct the impression that nothing was going on in the U.S. to reduce greenhouse gas pollution.

Chris Gregoire: "States have taken up this issue.  We're working it and making considerable progress.  I think the message was very well received and put a completely different light on our country because of the efforts we have already undertaken."

Gregoire says the daily protests outside the conference hall have not affected the business going on inside.

Oregon and Idaho's governors did not fly to Copenhagen.  Instead, they have journeyed to San Diego for a meeting of the Western Governors Association. 

On the agenda there is a discussion about what it will take to get more electric cars on the road.