California’s Shift on Oil Drilling
California Governor Gavin Newsom has made a surprising turn on oil drilling policies. Originally, he aimed to limit the practice, but the rising gas prices may push him to expand drilling in Kern County.
Recent reports indicate that newspapers have shifted away from his earlier, strong stance against oil drilling, especially as California faces the possibility of soaring gas prices—potentially hitting $8 a gallon due to refinery issues.
Back in 2021, Newsom nearly imposed a moratorium that would have severely impacted the oil and gas sector in Kern County by restricting fracking permits. He stated at the time, “The climate crisis is realistic and we keep seeing signs every day.”
Yet, by 2025, he struck a deal with the oil industry. Congress passed legislation permitting drilling in central California, which has disappointed many environmental advocates.
According to reports, an organization aimed at promoting laws that hold pollution-producing companies accountable for climate harm is now facing challenges. Their efforts to defeat a referendum affecting the state’s oil regulations have stumbled, particularly in light of support from Newsom and legislative leaders for drilling in Kern County through a bill known as SB 237.
The political landscape is changing due to looming refinery closures in California, causing concern among Democratic lawmakers about the potential impact on gas prices. There’s an acknowledgment that moving away from fossil fuels without a solid transition plan poses significant risks.
As Andrew Acosta, a Democratic campaign consultant, noted, “It’s one thing to be ready during the campaign. When suddenly the refinery says, ‘We’re not leaving California,’ that’s where we are now—this is true.”
This marks a significant shift for Newsom, who has been recognized as a climate leader and previously expressed the necessity for California to move beyond oil.
Interestingly, Newsom seems to have an eye on the 2028 presidential race. It’s likely he wants to avoid the reputation of being a governor whose policies contributed to rising gas prices affecting families across the state.
