California Gov. Gavin Newsom is getting roasted online after trying to shame Americans into avoiding Chevron gas stations during Memorial Day weekend — because apparently lecturing working families about energy while riding around in a taxpayer-funded chauffeured electric SUV is now considered leadership.
The backlash exploded after the U.S. Oil & Gas Association fired back at Newsom on X with a brutal response that quickly went viral. “Pro tip: Don’t take Pro tips from a Politician who hasn’t driven himself anywhere since 2004,” the organization posted, mocking the governor’s heavily protected and chauffeur-driven lifestyle.
The jab struck a nerve because, according to reports, Newsom is routinely transported around by state-funded drivers in an all-electric Rivian while everyday Californians continue struggling with some of the highest gas prices in America. Easy to tell people where not to buy gas when someone else is handling the driving for you.
Newsom had encouraged Californians to avoid Chevron stations amid ongoing tensions between his administration and the oil industry. The governor has repeatedly attacked energy companies while pushing aggressive climate policies and electric vehicle mandates across the state.
Critics argue those same policies have helped drive up energy costs for millions of middle-class families, truckers, commuters, and small businesses already dealing with inflation and economic uncertainty. California residents have watched fuel prices remain consistently higher than much of the country while Sacramento politicians continue pushing regulations that conservatives say punish domestic energy production.
The U.S. Oil & Gas Association, which has represented American oil and gas producers for more than a century, clearly wasn’t interested in letting Newsom’s comments slide quietly into the holiday weekend. Their response gained massive attention online, with thousands of users mocking what they viewed as the governor’s disconnect from ordinary Americans.
Conservatives were quick to point out the irony of wealthy politicians demanding sacrifices from working people while personally living far removed from the financial pain caused by rising energy costs. For families trying to travel over Memorial Day weekend, finding affordable gas matters a whole lot more than political virtue signaling on social media.
The clash also reflects the growing national debate over energy independence, fossil fuels, and the Biden-era climate agenda embraced by many Democratic leaders. Republicans continue arguing that domestic oil and gas production remains essential for economic stability, lower prices, and national security.
Meanwhile, many Americans remain frustrated watching politicians attack the very industries that keep the country moving — especially during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
At the end of the day, drivers across the country aren’t looking for political lectures at the pump. They just want affordable gas, reliable energy, and leaders who actually understand the realities facing everyday Americans.
