By Reagan Steele – Business & Economic Policy Writer

As President Trump calls on U.S. oil producers to ramp up output in response to Iran’s threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, California finds itself uniquely vulnerable—and unprepared. The president’s message was blunt: “DRILL, BABY, DRILL! And I mean NOW!!!” He warned that any attempt to raise oil prices would “play right into the hands of the enemy.” But here in the Golden State, oil producers are under siege—not from foreign adversaries, but from years of state policy decisions.

The Strait of Hormuz moves about 20% of the world’s oil supply. If Tehran shuts it down, analysts say Brent crude could spike to $110 per barrel. For California drivers, that could mean yet another brutal surge at the pump—in a state where prices already rank among the nation’s highest.

Unlike energy-producing states that can respond quickly, California has spent years dismantling its own oil and gas capabilities. The state still gets over 80% of its energy from oil and gas, but has made it harder and harder to produce either one. Hydraulic fracturing permits have been shut down. New wells are banned within 3,200 feet of occupied structures. And state officials have gone after major oil companies with lawsuits, regulatory burdens, and public messaging campaigns.

As a result, we’re now more dependent than ever on foreign oil — just as global supply is being threatened.

The goal was to move toward renewables. But wind and solar still provide only a small fraction of what’s needed. The math doesn’t lie, and there is no quick fix.

Now, with war looming in the Middle East and supply chains hanging by a thread, everyday Californians are left exposed. Prices could spike, and the state has few tools left to cushion the blow.

Trump’s call to drill may be controversial in some circles, but it follows a basic principle: when supply is threatened, you boost production. Everyone knows this.

Everyone, apparently, except Sacramento.