The True Architect of California’s High Gas Prices: Gavin Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom is trying to blame President Trump for rising gas prices in the Golden State, pointing to U.S. strikes on Iran as the cause. But to understand the true reason gas prices are so high, Governor Newsom must examine his own policies.
Less than a year ago, Newsom increased California’s already high gas tax. Drivers in the state pay about 70 cents per gallon in taxes alone, the highest gas tax in the country.
At the same time, Newsom’s aggressive environmental policies have pushed California’s energy infrastructure to its limits. Strict regulations and political pressure have led to refinery closures throughout the state.
To bypass federal laws, gasoline produced along the U.S. Gulf Coast is shipped to the Bahamas for storage and transshipment before passing through the Panama Canal and finally reaching California. Each step increases shipping and handling costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.
“Governor Newsom pointing fingers at President Trump for California’s gas woes is rich, considering he’s the guy whose green crusade has turned the Golden State into a refinery graveyard,” said Daniel Turner, Founder and Executive Director of Power The Future. “While he’s busy closing facilities and forcing families to foot the bill for bizarre Bahamas oil detours, prices are skyrocketing on his watch. It’s time for Newsom to drop the partisan spin and own his failed policies that are squeezing every last cent from hardworking Californians.”
Newsom can try to blame events overseas or political opponents in Washington, but the reality is clear: California’s energy crisis is the direct result of policies that restrict supply, shut down refineries, and add new taxes on drivers.
March 4, 2026