Former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra's recent comments defending the oil and gas industry have become a central flashpoint in the 2026 governor's race, as billionaire challenger Tom Steyer turns them into attack ads. Speaking at the League of California Cities conference, Becerra argued that fossil fuels are a fact of life, stating that Chevron employs hard-working people and that everyone relies on the company. 'If Chevron wants to give me a check, that's their prerogative,' he added. Steyer, a Democratic activist and Becerra's most serious challenger, has used the clip in three separate ads, editing it to make Becerra appear beholden to oil money.
Democratic Party's Internal Struggle
The incident highlights a broader debate within the Democratic Party over its approach to the oil and gas industry. While some candidates like Becerra advocate for a conciliatory stance, others, including Steyer, push for aggressive climate action. Emily Becker of Third Way, a center-left think tank, noted that it is unrealistic for policymakers to only criticize oil and gas, given public reliance on them. The shift marks a departure from the Green New Deal era, when Democrats competed to propose the fastest transition away from fossil fuels.
Regional Candidates Embrace Oil and Gas
In regions where oil and gas are major economic drivers, Democrats are adopting friendlier tones. Former Tejano star Bobby Pulido, running in south Texas, emphasizes the industry's role in providing high-paying jobs. State Rep. James Talarico, also in Texas, expressed gratitude for the industry's contributions to education funding. In Alaska, former Rep. Mary Peltola supports oil and gas exploration, aligning with Republican senators. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has also rolled back climate regulations amid criticism from progressives.
Environmental Groups React
Environmental organizations have largely backed Steyer. California Environmental Voters political director Matt Abularach-Macias called Becerra's comments wrong, asserting that Big Oil is the 'bad guy.' Chevron and California Resources Corporation have each donated $500,000 to a pro-Becerra independent expenditure campaign, which Steyer has used to label Becerra 'big oil Becerra.' Despite Becerra's history of suing fossil fuel companies as attorney general, the industry appears to favor him over Steyer, according to a California Democrat familiar with the race.
The outcome of the contest could influence how 2028 presidential candidates address energy issues. Becker believes the ground has shifted permanently, with Democrats likely to adopt more pragmatic positions reflecting public opinion.
