Speaking on Fox News, former California GOP Chair Jessica Milan Patterson argued that policies instituted by Newsom and the Democratic supermajority in the California Legislature have driven up costs through taxes and regulations.
“We have the highest gas prices in the nation. We pay $1.50 to $2.00 more per gallon than the rest of the country,” Patterson said. “It is because of high gas taxes… special fuel mandates… regulations here in California… real leadership would have said… I would suspend the gas tax tomorrow.”
Democrats counter, arguing that global oil markets, refinery constraints and corporate pricing practices all play a role. Some have pointed to ongoing state efforts to increase oversight of oil companies and penalize excessive profits.
Energy analysts broadly agree that California’s higher taxes and environmental standards contribute to elevated prices, but also note that refinery outages, supply limitations and international conflicts can quickly push costs higher.
With summer travel season approaching and volatility in global oil markets continuing, Californians may face sustained high prices — even as leaders in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. continue to argue over who is responsible for the pain at the pump.
A $37.2 Million Boost: California Announces New Funding for Apprenticeships and Workforce Training
California is investing $37.2 million to expand apprenticeship and workforce training programs, aiming to support more than 60,000 residents and strengthen pathways into high-demand careers.
On April 9, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the funding through the California Apprenticeship Council Training Fund and the California Workforce Development Board’s High Road Training Partnerships. The initiative is designed to help Californians gain job skills while addressing workforce shortages across key industries.
According to Newsom’s office, the investment highlights the state’s broader effort to connect education, training, and employment.
“Through these programs, we’re strengthening training opportunities for Californians to earn, learn, and build a future without taking on debt,” Newsom said in a statement.
About half of the funding, $18.6 million, will support 160 state-registered apprenticeship programs serving more than 55,000 workers, primarily in construction and skilled trades such as electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC. State officials say these jobs often provide stable careers with median wages above $70,000 per year.
The remaining $18.6 million will fund workforce training through High Road Training Partnerships, which will train at least 4,600 workers in industries including health care, manufacturing, and technology. Several organizations received major awards, including $3.5 million each for the Miguel Contreras Foundation to expand health care career pathways, the San Bernardino Community College District to grow regional workforce programs, and The Empowerment Center to expand mental health training in disaster-affected communities.
California Labor Secretary Stewart Knox said the effort brings together education and industry to create clearer career pathways.
“Apprenticeships and workforce training are most effective when education, industry, and workforce systems work together,” Knox said.
State officials say the funding also supports broader economic goals, including growth in clean energy, cybersecurity, and health care. The investment is part of a long-term strategy to expand access to good-paying jobs while preparing workers for California’s evolving economy.
Under Pressure, Rep. Eric Swalwell Suspends California Governor Bid Amid Mounting SA Allegations
Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14) has suspended his campaign for California governor following mounting pressure from leaders within his own party, capping a tumultuous week dominated by sexual assault allegations and political fallout.