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Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, known for his environmental efforts, is shifting his stance to support California's oil industry as he runs for governor. Despite his past work on expanding mass transit and reducing emissions, Villaraigosa has accepted over $1 million in campaign contributions from fossil-fuel interests throughout his political career. Since entering the gubernatorial race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, he has received more than $176,000 from oil industry donors, including companies operating in the San Joaquin Valley and Los Angeles County, according to The Los Angeles Times.
Villaraigosa's pivot highlights a divide within the Democratic Party, as members grapple with balancing climate change initiatives with the economic realities faced by low-income Californians. Villaraigosa argues that policies leading to refinery closures could increase gas prices, impacting working-class citizens. "I'm not fighting for refineries," he said. "I'm fighting for the people who pay for gas in this state."
His support for the oil industry has drawn criticism from environmental groups, with some accusing him of violating a pledge not to accept fossil-fuel contributions. RL Miller, president of Climate Hawks Vote, expressed disappointment, stating, "This is bear-hugging the oil industry." Villaraigosa, however, defends his stance, emphasizing the need for an "all-of-the-above" approach to achieve net-zero emissions, which includes a mix of renewable and traditional energy sources.
As California faces potential refinery closures, economists warn of rising gas prices, with predictions that they could exceed $8 per gallon by 2026. Villaraigosa's campaign reflects a broader debate on how to manage energy transitions without harming the economy. Other Democratic candidates, like Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, have pledged not to accept oil industry contributions, contrasting with Villaraigosa's approach.