As the California gubernatorial race winds down, Xavier Becerra is asserting that he is the sole candidate capable of challenging big oil, despite accepting contributions from the industry.
“Tom Steyer made billions from oil and coal,” Becerra posted on X recently, targeting his billionaire opponent. “I’ve built my career taking them to court and winning.”
This assertion came alongside a vintage-style campaign graphic proclaiming, “There’s only one candidate suing Big Oil. It’s not Tom Steyer.”
However, critics have been quick to highlight an inconsistency. Becerra has benefited from oil company donations since launching his campaign.
Having served as a former congressman, state attorney general, and a member of the Biden Cabinet, Becerra accepted up to $39,200 from Chevron last June. On the same day Chevron decided to target Steyer, they also contributed $500,000 to a committee supporting Becerra.
“Chevron is charging Californians $6 a gallon with one hand while making Xavier Becerra write a $500,000 check with the other,” remarked Steyer’s spokesperson Danny Wang.
He further claimed, “As attorney general, Becerra was unable to confront Big Oil. Chevron knows it has allies in Sacramento, but Tom won’t.”
Steyer has leveled relentless criticism at Becerra for taking money from Big Oil.
It’s worth noting that Steyer doesn’t have to rely on funding from oil companies, having recently shattered self-funding records in the campaign.
Becerra was not a significant figure in the race until April, following controversies surrounding Congressman Eric Swalwell, which negatively impacted his standing.
Republican candidate Steve Hilton criticized Becerra’s approach in a recent interview.
“Becerra has managed to present himself as a total hypocrite while also contributing to making gas prices the highest in the nation,” Hilton asserted.
He added, “That’s what Democrats mean when they talk about challenging big oil, essentially raising gas prices for Californians. Good luck with your campaign.”
California drivers recently faced an average of $6.14 per gallon for gas during Memorial Day, which is approximately $1.58 above the national average. According to state estimates, local taxes and fees account for about 70 cents of that, making California’s gas tax the highest in the country.
Governor Gavin Newsom has been engaged in a prolonged conflict with Chevron and other oil companies while also defending climate regulations that are said to contribute to rising fuel costs.
During the Memorial Day weekend, Newsom’s office encouraged Californians to refrain from purchasing gas at Chevron stations, alleging that the company was overcharging drivers by as much as 80 cents per gallon compared to competitors.
Chevron has countered by posting signs at their gas stations, blaming state politicians and environmental policies for elevated gas prices. One sign read, “California politicians are choosing foreign oil and fuel over local jobs and cost savings.”
While serving as attorney general, Becerra took part in several environmental lawsuits targeting fossil fuel companies and collaborated with activists focused on managing the industry’s impact.
California Democrats have long criticized oil companies amid growing discontent over rising fuel prices and taxes. In more recent interviews, Becerra appeared to soften his rhetoric, stating, “Chevron — they’re not the bad guys,” at a recent forum.
He added, “Do we all drive electric cars? You need a Chevron. I need a Chevron. Californians need a Chevron, too.”
