Full Breakdown
Gov. Newsom Urges Californians to Skip Chevron Over Memorial Day
5/23/2026, 8:22:30 AM
Boycott Call and Immediate Context
On May 21, Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X urging Memorial Day travelers to skip Chevron stations, claiming the brand adds a premium to California’s already high pump price. The plea followed Chevron’s signs at many pumps that blame Sacramento’s climate and tax policies for the state’s gasoline costs.
Price Context & Data
California’s average gasoline price is $6.13-$6.14 per gallon, about $1.58 above the national average (American Automobile Association). The state levies a 70-cent per-gallon tax—the highest in the nation—plus a premium low-emission blend and other environmental fees. A California Energy Commission analysis cited by the governor shows Chevron’s retail price exceeds unbranded fuel by 60-80 cents per gallon; a 2024 commission report recorded a retail margin of 84 cents and a 48-cent gap. Chevron controls roughly 19 % of the market through over 1,600 stations, most independently owned.
Official Statements & Responses
Newsom’s X post framed the boycott as protection against overcharges, citing the Energy Commission analysis. Chevron said its signage simply educates drivers about Sacramento’s energy and tax policies, and its spokesperson highlighted the company’s effort to explain tax-dollar use. Consumer Watchdog cited state data showing Chevron’s profit of $1.11 per refinery-gate gallon and retail margins.
Criticism & Opposition
Consumer Watchdog’s Jamie Court warned the boycott harms independent station owners. Climate activist Tom Steyer pointed to contributions to former health secretary Xavier Becerra as evidence of industry influence. The US Oil & Gas Association, via Tim Stewart, mocked Newsom’s “pro tip” and questioned his driving habits, saying he is out of touch with everyday commuters.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources report different price gaps: the Energy Commission cites 60-80 cents, a 2024 commission report notes a 48-cent gap and an 84-cent margin, while Chevron’s data suggests a $0.30 per-gallon premium. No source quantifies how much of the gap stems from taxes versus corporate margins.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Pro tip: unbranded gas comes from the same refineries, storage tanks, and pipelines, and it meets the same state standards to keep your engine running clean.” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “Big Oil is already making billions off Trump's Iran War; don't let them rip you off even more by overpaying for the brand name.” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “California politicians are choosing foreign oil and fuels over local jobs and lower costs.” — Chevron signage, California stations
- “We've been very vocal about the importance of customer education in California so that our drivers and our consumers understand where their tax dollars are going,” — Ross Allen, Chevron spokesperson
What’s Next
State regulators will review the 2023 penalty law after its 2030 postponement, while consumer groups monitor the boycott’s impact on pump prices and independent stations. The outcome may shape future California energy policy.
