California's gas crisis: a race for the governor's mansion
California drivers are bracing for more pain at the pump, a reality fueling a fierce debate among gubernatorial hopefuls vying to replace Gavin Newsom in 2026. As refineries flee the state and prices soar—already the nation’s highest—the question isn’t just about affordability, but the very future of California’s energy policy.
A decade of blame, no smoking gun
For years, state officials have pointed fingers at oil companies, accusing them of price gouging. A two-year investigation, however, turned up no evidence to support these claims, leaving a frustrating stalemate. The oil industry, meanwhile, argues California’s aggressive environmental policies are driving them out, a narrative that’s gained traction amid the closures.
Ten candidates are vying for the governorship: Xavier Becerra, Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Eric Swalwell, Tony Thurmond, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Betty Yee. Each has staked out a position on this increasingly urgent issue, as revealed in recent interviews with CBS News California Investigates.
Hilton's bold promise: $3 gas, regulatory overhaul
Republican candidate Steve Hilton has thrown down the gauntlet, promising $3 gas through a sweeping overhaul of California's regulatory environment. His plan, he asserts, involves repealing the low-carbon fuel standard, reforming cap-and-trade taxes, easing refinery regulations, and opening up California’s oil and gas production. Hilton’s fervor extends to financial support for the industry, stating, “I support that industry wholeheartedly.”
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, also a Republican, echoes Hilton's sentiment, arguing that high gas prices are a primary driver of California’s exorbitant cost of living. He advocates for immediate reductions in regulations that he claims add nearly $2 to the price of a gallon, and a return to drilling within the state. “We’re buying all of our oil from countries that couldn’t care less about saving the planet,” Bianco observed, highlighting the environmental impact of imported oil.
Democrats seek balance: innovation and transition
The Democratic candidates, while acknowledging the need for affordable gas, emphasize a more nuanced approach. Former Attorney General Xavier Becerra stresses the importance of stabilizing supply and distribution, advocating for maintaining refinery capacity while continuing California's transition to cleaner energy. Congressman Eric Swalwell champions an “all-of-the-above” energy policy alongside strong environmental standards.
Businessman Tom Steyer proposes restructuring the market and importing refined fuel, arguing that California should resemble the rest of the world in its sourcing practices. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan champions innovation and grid modernization, pointing to technologies like energy storage as key to cost reduction.
Rep. Katie Porter emphasizes a transitional approach, recognizing California's need to maintain refinery capacity while investing in renewable energy. State Superintendent Tony Thurmond calls for financial relief for residents alongside continued investment in cleaner technologies. Former State Controller Betty Yee suggests a phased transition, citing successful models of refineries investing in alternative fuels.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa frames the issue as a long-standing affordability challenge, advocating for a balanced approach that avoids abrupt shifts away from fossil fuels.
The verdict: a choice between revolutions and gradualism
As the 2026 election nears, California voters face a stark choice: embrace Hilton and Bianco's calls for a regulatory rollback and a return to expanded drilling, or support the Democrats' vision of a gradual transition towards a greener future. The debate isn't just about gas prices; it’s about the soul of California’s energy policy and its impact on the wallets of millions.