California opened a new front in its battle over gas prices. Governor Gavin Newsom asked drivers not to buy fuel at Chevron over the Memorial Day weekend. The recommendation escalated tensions between the state government and one of the country’s largest oil companies.
The call comes amid a national discussion about energy costs. In California, the gallon price clearly exceeds the U.S. average. Newsom accuses major oil companies of exploiting the international crisis to increase their margins. Chevron responds that the problem lies in the state’s own policies.
The dispute has become more visible just before one of the year’s busiest travel weekends. Memorial Day typically marks the unofficial start of summer. But this time, high gas prices could change the plans of thousands of families.
Why Did Newsom Attack Chevron?
The governor’s office defended its position with a direct message. It noted that unbranded gasoline comes from the same refineries, tanks, and pipelines. It also stated that it complies with the same state regulations to keep engines clean.
In that same message, Newsom’s team accused oil companies of earning billions from Trump’s war in Iran. For this reason, they asked drivers not to overpay just for the brand name. The message sought to strike at Chevron at the moment of highest fuel consumption.
The governor’s office supported its argument with an analysis from the state energy commission. According to that report, Chevron costs on average between 15 and 21 cents per liter more than unbranded options. In gallon terms, that equals between 60 and 80 cents additional.
How Did Chevron Respond?
Chevron counterattacked with signs posted at California gas stations. On them, it blames the state’s climate policies for high prices. The signs even include a QR code that directs to the company’s website.
On that page, the oil company urges the public to “raise your voice for affordable and reliable energy.” It also claims that California politicians prefer foreign oil and fuels over local jobs and lower costs. The message points directly at Newsom’s government.
Chevron spokesman Ross Allen explained that the campaign is not new. He said it is part of a strategy launched 3 years ago to educate consumers. According to him, the idea is for drivers to understand where their taxes go and why they pay more.
How Expensive Is Filling Up in California?
The average gas price in California reached $1.62 per liter on Thursday. That equals $6.14 per gallon. The figure is $1.58 per gallon above the national average, according to AAA.
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California also applies the highest gas tax in the country. The state energy commission estimates the tax is around 18 cents per liter. In gallon terms, that represents about 70 cents additional for consumers.
The difference is already hitting households and travelers. The Memorial Day weekend typically spikes demand. But with prices this high, many drivers adjust routes, reduce trips, or look for cheaper stations.
What Role Does the War in Iran Play?
The war with Iran disrupted the global energy market. Since its start, gas prices have risen throughout the United States. Crude oil spiked because the Strait of Hormuz was practically closed.
That passage moves about one-fifth of the world’s traded oil.
