All articles tagged with #california gas prices
California’s average regular gasoline price reached $6.08 per gallon in mid-September 2026, driven by a 19-cent weekly jump and broader national trends. Diesel prices hit a record $8.35, raising concerns about supply chain costs. Experts predict a 10 to 30-cent drop by late October when the state switches to winter-blend fuel, though Middle East tensions may delay relief.
Oil prices jumped more than 6% after renewed U.S.-Iran clashes and Trump’s remarks, signaling potential higher pump costs. California’s average gas price rose to about $5.38 per gallon (LA County around $5.40), up slightly from the day before and still below last month’s near-$6 level, but well above the $4.55 level a year ago when the conflict began. The market remains volatile as geopolitical tensions push energy costs and consumer prices.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is using the Iran-related spike in oil prices to attack Donald Trump, arguing the former president’s energy approach contributed to volatile markets as two key refineries idled and California’s pump prices rose. The administration has sought to stabilize supply through state refiners and potential imports, while Valero’s Benicia refinery faces closure risk that could be mitigated by keeping it as optional, amid legislative deadlock. White House and GOP critics push back, complicating a national narrative for Newsom as a possible 2028 candidate. The episode underscores the tension between California’s environmental/regulatory policies, domestic refinery capacity, and global oil dynamics.