As noted in last week’s MMR, the Bakersfield Californian reported that Reps. David Valadao and Vince Fong, along with four other California congressmen, urged Governor Gavin Newsom to reconsider his anti-oil policies, which they claim jeopardize the state's military bases and economy.
In a letter released by Valadao's office, they criticized Newsom's plan to phase out oil extraction by 2045, arguing it risks making military installations reliant on foreign fuels and negatively impacting small businesses, the military, and low-income residents.
Newsom's administration responded, defending their policies as beneficial for lowering gas prices and promoting clean energy. The governor's office contends that the transition to clean energy is essential and that the state's measures against price gouging are saving consumers money.
Well, how true is that?
Newsom was sworn into office in January 2019. In that month and year, California gas prices were at $3.53 per gallon. Today, Californians are paying $4.64 per gallon. That is an increase of more than 30%.
The congressional query of the governor highlights concerns about national security, potential fuel shortages, and increased dependence on foreign oil, which harm California's economy and consumers.
Newsom still has not answered the questions posed in the letter, which are valid and concerning. Hopefully, the administration will listen to the concerns expressed by California Representatives.
Here is a copy of the letter: https://valadao.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1377