California 2026 governor candidates discuss gas prices and environmental policy
California gas prices are the nation's highest. The candidates in the 2026 governor's race weighed in on the role of state policy, global supply risks, refinery closures, and how each would address rising gas prices.
April 6, 2026 / 11:47 PM EDT / CBS News California
As California voters prepare to choose their next governor in 2026, energy policy — particularly the future of oil production, refineries and gas prices — has remained a central and complex issue in the race.
California gas prices are the highest in the nation and are projected to rise as oil refineries leave the state. For years, state leaders accused oil companies of price gouging, but a two-year state investigation found no evidence of that. Meanwhile, the oil industry blames California's progressive policies for driving them out.
The 10 candidates in the governor's race are Xavier Becerra, Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Matt Mahan, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Eric Swalwell, Tony Thurmond, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Betty Yee.
CBS News California Investigates correspondent Julie Watts sat down with candidates , who weighed in on the role of state policy, global supply risks, and refinery closures, and how each would address rising gas prices.
How should California balance environmental policy and gas prices?