Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is making headlines as he shifts his stance on environmental issues while campaigning for governor of California. Once celebrated for his efforts to promote environmental initiatives, Villaraigosa is now defending the oil industry, which is facing challenges in the state.
Villaraigosa, who has a history of supporting mass transit and reducing carbon emissions, has accepted over $1 million in contributions from oil companies throughout his political career. Since announcing his candidacy to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, he has received more than $176,000 from oil industry donors, including a company operating oil fields in California.
His recent comments come in the wake of refinery closures announced by major oil companies like Valero and Phillips 66, which could lead to increased gas prices for California drivers. Villaraigosa criticized state policies that he believes contributed to these closures, stating, “I’m not fighting for refineries. I’m fighting for the people who pay for gas in this state.”
This situation highlights a growing divide among California Democrats. Villaraigosa argues that the party’s push for environmental reforms should not come at the expense of working-class families struggling with rising living costs. He believes that a balanced approach is necessary, one that includes all energy sources—solar, wind, nuclear, and even oil and gas—to achieve net-zero emissions.
His stance has drawn criticism from environmental groups that once viewed him as an ally. RL Miller, president of Climate Hawks Vote, expressed shock at Villaraigosa’s acceptance of oil money, noting that he had previously pledged not to accept such contributions during his last gubernatorial run in 2018.
Villaraigosa insists that the economic landscape has changed since 2018. He emphasizes the need to address the financial pressures faced by working-class Americans, stating that issues like gas prices and the cost of living are driving voters away from the Democratic Party.
Political analysts suggest that Villaraigosa is positioning himself as a moderate in the race, appealing to voters concerned about rising costs. However, his acceptance of oil donations raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of money in politics.
As the race for governor heats up, Villaraigosa’s evolving stance on environmental issues and his ties to the oil industry will likely remain a focal point in the campaign. With several other candidates in the running, including those who have signed pledges against accepting oil contributions, it will be interesting to see how this plays out as the election approaches.