Newsom weaponizes Iran war to pin high gas prices on Trump
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.