CALIFORNIA — May 8, 2026

Many local leaders and conservative voices in California are criticizing the state’s “one-party” political model, arguing that tax, energy, and environmental policies are causing the cost of living to soar and putting significant pressure on working families.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Los Angeles Republican Party Chair Roxanne Hoge described the current situation as a:

“stressful relationship”
between residents and the state government controlled by the Democratic Party.

According to Ms. Hoge, Californians are facing very high gas prices while many must drive long distances to work because housing near city centers has become too expensive.

Los Angeles City Councilmember John Lee — the only non-Democrat on the city council — said voters constantly complain about:

  • gas prices,

  • food prices,

  • and the rising cost of living.

He said:

“I feel it in my own family every time I go to the grocery store.”

According to the report, California is often among the states with the highest gas prices in the U.S. due to:

  • high fuel taxes,

  • numerous fees,

  • and strict environmental regulations.

Urban studies professor Joel Kotkin argued:

“The real reason prices are so high is taxes and regulatory mandates.”

He also criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration for energy policies perceived as undermining California's oil and gas industry.

However, Governor Newsom’s office rejected these criticisms and referred questions to the California Energy Commission (CEC).

The CEC stated that new energy laws have saved Californians approximately $9.3 billion compared to 2022 and suggested that recent price spikes were directly related to:

  • the war in Iran,

  • and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Nevertheless, John Lee contended:

“People don’t see those savings every time they fill up their tanks.”

He is currently proposing a temporary suspension of California's gas tax to provide relief for families.

Meanwhile, Ms. Hoge noted that California possesses vast oil and gas reserves that remain underutilized due to state policies.

The article also mentions criticism directed at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass regarding the response to the Palisades and Eaton fires.

Real estate broker Cory Weiss said he confronted Mayor Bass at a restaurant after helping more than 30 families who lost their homes relocate.

According to Mr. Weiss:

“I didn’t see any remorse.”

Many interview participants also expressed concern that California's policies could spread to other states due to its massive economy and population.