California’s Energy Crisis: A Growing Threat to the State and National Security

As California Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom travels abroad, promoting a failing energy agenda, the stark reality faced by Californians cannot be ignored. The state endures some of the highest gas and electricity prices in the nation, forcing residents into a costly energy affordability crisis that threatens both the economy and national security.

Since 2018, more than 360 energy companies have exited California. Strict regulations and new oil drilling permits have plummeted by 95% since Newsom took office in 2019. Consequently, California has produced approximately 128 million fewer barrels of oil daily over the past five years, despite possessing the fifth-largest petroleum reserves in the United States.

The repercussions of Newsom’s refusal to back domestic production are substantial, leading to an increased dependency on foreign oil. In 1982, California imported less than 6% of its crude oil. Today, figures from the California Energy Commission reveal that more than 60% of crude oil consumed in the state comes from outside the country. Brazil accounts for 20% of this imported supply, while Iraq contributes 21%.

Declining Refining Capacity and Rising Prices

At the same time, California’s refining capacity continues to dwindle. Projections indicate that by early 2026, the state will lose nearly 20% of its remaining refining capacity. Without decisive action, blackouts, price spikes, and fuel shortages could become commonplace, affecting not only Californians but also millions of people across the West Coast who depend on the state’s energy supply.

This situation profoundly impacts California’s pipeline infrastructure. Most pipelines require a minimum production of 90,000 barrels a day to maintain financial viability. Currently, shortages have reduced operational levels to around 50,000 barrels a day, resulting in losses of approximately $2 million monthly for operators.

A Risk to Domestic Energy Operations

Crimson Midstream, responsible for California’s largest crude oil pipeline network, struggles to sustain operations amid Sacramento’s ineffective governance. Newsom’s policies have cultivated an environment of uncertainty, jeopardizing the San Pablo Bay Pipeline’s viability and further destabilizing California’s fragile energy supply chain.

These misguided policies have created an artificial fuel shortage, driving prices at the pump to unprecedented levels for working families and necessitating even more imports of gasoline. This situation could compel California to rely on buying back refined gasoline from its own offshore reserves at inflated prices.

Impact on Military Readiness

The consequences of Newsom’s energy mismanagement extend beyond consumer prices; they also threaten national security. California hosts numerous military installations crucial for U.S. operations in the Indo-Pacific Command. These military bases require a steady supply of fuel to ensure readiness for global missions.

Military aviation fuels, which are highly specialized, must be processed by California’s refineries. However, recent refinery closures are expected to reduce jet fuel production by at least 600,000 gallons daily, creating significant challenges for military operations.

Addressing National Security Challenges

As tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific, including increasing threats from China, U.S. preparedness requires bolstered defense capabilities in that region. Instead of collaborating across party lines to tackle these pressing matters, Newsom has persistently diminished California’s refinery capacity and in-state oil production, undermining the state’s vital role in national security.

If the state’s fuel network experiences continued strain from a patchwork of underutilized pipelines and overburdened refineries, the military fuels supply chain that supports the West Coast’s operational capabilities will endure serious harm.

The Way Forward for California

Newsom’s progressive agenda and aspirations for higher office appear to overshadow the pressing realities facing California. This approach is not merely misguided; it is dangerously irresponsible.

In order to revitalize California’s energy landscape and mitigate national security risks, the state must dramatically increase permitting, expand its drilling capacity, and reinstate enhanced oil recovery techniques. These steps are essential for maintaining operational pipelines while striving to enhance refining capabilities.

Collaboration instead of obstruction should be the priority as Sacramento engages with Congress and the federal government to boost domestic energy production. Meeting California’s growing energy demands is essential for fortifying national security and ensuring reliable energy for residents.

Governor Newsom’s ineffective energy policies have precipitated California’s affordability crisis. The choice before him is stark: persist down a path of scarcity and dependency or collaborate with energy producers to reclaim true energy independence for both the state and the nation. The future of California’s economy and the security of America depend on decisive action.