Republican Congressman Vince Fong has raised significant concerns regarding California’s dwindling oil supply, suggesting it poses a national security risk. Fong’s warning comes as Phillips 66 prepares to close its refinery in Southern California by the end of 2023. This closure, alongside Valero’s planned shutdown of its Benicia refinery in the upcoming spring, threatens to reduce the state’s refining capacity by approximately 20%.
Impact on Energy Supply and Military Readiness
During an interview with California Politics 360, Fong emphasized the broader implications of these closures, stating, “We have an energy crisis in our state.” He highlighted that the lack of oil supply in California directly affects neighboring states like Nevada and Arizona, potentially compromising their energy security as well.
Fong referenced a recent study indicating that the supply of critical fuels, such as jet fuel, diesel, and gasoline for the U.S. military, could be jeopardized if the San Pablo Bay pipeline ceases operations due to insufficient oil flow. The timeline for such a shutdown remains uncertain, further amplifying the urgency of the situation.
Fong criticized what he termed “shortsighted policies” from both the Newsom administration and the previous Biden administration. He expressed concern that California’s energy crisis could have far-reaching consequences, not only domestically but also globally, particularly if military readiness is compromised.
Legislative Responses and Future Solutions
In response to the refinery closures, California lawmakers and the governor recently passed legislation aimed at increasing oil drilling in Kern County. Despite these measures, Fong believes they fall short of addressing the immediate crisis. He noted that California currently relies on foreign countries for approximately 60% of its oil supply and advocated for utilizing available reserves to alleviate the situation.
Fong’s statements underline a growing concern about the state’s energy future and its implications for national security. As the state grapples with these challenges, the focus will likely remain on finding sustainable solutions that ensure both energy independence and military readiness.
For further insights, viewers can watch the full interview with Congressman Vince Fong on California Politics 360, airing every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on KCRA 3.
