California Governor Gavin Newsom sparked fierce backlash after claiming gas prices under $5 represent an achievement, while Californians pay 56% more at the pump than the national average and face potential price spikes from Middle East instability.
Energy Industry DESTROYS Governor’s Claims
The U.S. Oil & Gas Association delivered a sharp rebuke to Newsom’s social media post, which attempted to blame President Trump for market instability following U.S.-Israel airstrikes in Iran. The nonprofit trade association exposed California’s dependence on foreign oil, noting the state imports 63% of its crude despite sitting on 1.7 billion barrels of proven reserves. The organization criticized Newsom’s policies for creating vulnerability to foreign market disruptions that other states avoid through domestic production.
Gavin Newsom is destroyed for outrageous gas price tweet: 'Not a flex' https://t.co/JfehSdYdkM pic.twitter.com/4ytnCkgj8t
— California Post (@californiapost) March 1, 2026
California motorists paid an average of $4.646 per gallon for regular gasoline as of Sunday, according to AAA data. The national average stands at $2.984 per gallon, while high-tax New York charges $3.005 per gallon. Newsom’s claim that prices below $5 represent success drew widespread criticism from residents struggling with the nation’s highest fuel costs. Recent refinery closures, including Valero’s abrupt shutdown of its Benicia facility, threaten to push prices even higher in coming months.
New Mileage Tax THREATENS Drivers
California Democrats advanced Assembly Bill 1421 last month, funding research into replacing the flat gas tax with a per-mile fee. The proposed charge could range from two to nine cents per mile, potentially costing drivers an additional $228 to $1,026 annually. The legislation does not impose the tax directly but directs the California Transportation Commission and state Transportation Agency to study implementation methods. Critics argue the new fee structure would disproportionately impact rural residents and essential workers who drive longer distances.
Foreign Dependence Creates Vulnerability
The oil industry trade group emphasized that California’s self-imposed restrictions on domestic energy production leave the state uniquely exposed to international market volatility. While other states utilize their natural resources to maintain energy independence, California imports the majority of its crude oil from foreign sources. The governor’s attempt to shift blame for potential price increases to federal actions fell flat as critics pointed to state-level policies preventing development of substantial in-state reserves. The combination of foreign dependence, refinery closures, and proposed new taxes creates a perfect storm for California drivers already paying premium prices at the pump.