The Coffee Klatch with Robert Reich

Why the Hell Is Gas So Expensive in California?

June 5, 2026·3 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Friends,Trump and his Republicans say gas is hugely expensive in California because of state taxes and fees (mostly related to the environment). Here’s the sign you’ll see at Chevron stations:This is total rubbish. See my video, above. Gas prices are higher in California because giant oil corporations like Chevron have more monopoly power in California than they have in other states, which gives them the power to charge higher prices and make a fatter return. Chevron, by the way, is a direct descendant of the original Standard Oil Trust, which the Supreme Court decided in 1911 was an unlawful monopoly, and busted up. (Chevron used to be called Standard Oil of California, SoCal.) It’s regrown to become one of the largest corporations in the world. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit robertreich.substack.com/subscribe

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