California Faces Potential Gas Crisis Amid Democrat Policies

California's gas prices have surged, driven by Democrat-led green energy policies and new regulations. Multiple refineries, including Phillips 66 and Valero, are set to close, exacerbating supply concerns. The state's Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) program adjustments have already caused price hikes, with projections of gas potentially reaching $8 per gallon by 2026.
Republican California Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones criticized these policies, calling them unaffordable for average Californians. He accused Democrats of intentionally raising gas prices to push consumers toward electric vehicles (EVs), a goal tied to Governor Gavin Newsom's net-zero emissions target by 2045. Jones filed a records request to investigate potential collusion between Newsom's administration and state regulators, but the request remains unanswered.
California already has the highest gas tax and emissions cap-and-trade program in the nation. While gas prices nationwide are at a four-year low, Californians pay an average of $4.57 per gallon, $1.40 more than the national average. Newsom's office and state regulators have downplayed the impact of LCFS changes, citing modest price increases. However, critics argue that the state's reliance on wind and solar energy, coupled with insufficient EV infrastructure, makes transitioning away from gasoline impractical.
Jones emphasized that California has ample oil reserves but faces extraction restrictions due to stringent regulations. The ongoing debate highlights the ideological divide over balancing climate goals with economic affordability.

Published: 7/6/2025