‘I need Chevron’: The oil company at the center of the California governor’s race
Chevron plays a significant role in California's governor's race, influencing candidates' positions on climate and energy. The company's substantial profits and its impact on gasoline consumption highlight the complexities of transitioning to electric vehicles. Candidates like Xavier Becerra face scrutiny over their ties to Big Oil as they navigate the state's energy future.
- ▪Chevron is one of the largest producers and refiners of petroleum products in California.
- ▪The company reported $12.3 billion in profit last year, raising concerns about its influence on politics.
- ▪California's gasoline consumption has declined by about 15 percent since 2004, but Chevron still plays a crucial role in the state's energy infrastructure.
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Jake Bittle Staff Writer Published May 26, 2026 Topic Climate + Politics Share/Republish Copy Link Republish Copy Link Email SMS X Facebook Republish Reddit LinkedIn Bluesky When it comes to California’s climate future, the most important figure in the state’s chaotic governor’s race may not be any of the candidates on the debate stage. It may not even be outgoing governor Gavin Newsom, or President Donald Trump. Instead, it might just be Chevron, the multinational oil company that was founded in the Golden State more than 100 years ago. It is among the largest producers, refiners, and sellers of petroleum products in a state rapidly shifting toward electric vehicles.
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