California to Sell Winter Gasoline Early, Newsom Blames Trump's Iran War

California Governor Gavin Newsom said the state will allow the sale of winter-blend gasoline earlier than usual, citing the energy shock from the Iran war that continues to push fuel prices higher.

Gavin Newsom Slams Trump's Reckless War

Newsom took to X on Monday to criticize President Donald Trump, calling his "reckless Iran war" responsible for over $120 billion in excess fuel costs in "just 7 months." The war began in February when a joint U.S.-Israeli operation killed Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"With no end to the war in sight, I am suspending California's seasonal summer-blend gasoline requirement and directing state agencies to immediately allow the sale of winter-blend gasoline," he said. "This will help lower costs and provide relief for drivers, businesses, and communities across the state," Newsom stated.

In just 7 months, Trump's reckless Iran war has cost Americans over $120 billion in extra fuel costs.

With no end to the war in sight, I am suspending California's seasonal summer-blend gasoline requirement and directing state agencies to immediately allow the sale of winter-blend gasoline. This...

— Governor Gavin Newsom, September 29, 2026

In August, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced an emergency fuel waiver allowing the sale of winter-blend gasoline earlier than mandated, in an effort to lower gasoline prices.

The main difference between summer and winter gasoline blends lies in their volatility, measured by Reid Vapor Pressure. Winter gasoline can have a higher RVP, making it easier to vaporize in colder temperatures.

According to AAA, the national average gasoline price on Monday was $4.4768 per gallon. However, prices in California remain elevated, with gasoline averaging $6.3650 per gallon. For diesel, the average price at the pump in the state on Monday was $8.3999 per gallon.

Gavin Newsom Criticizes Rollback of Fuel Economy Standards

Over the weekend, Newsom criticized Trump's decision to overturn fuel economy standards established under former President Joe Biden, saying the move comes amid surging gasoline prices. He also stated the decision would increase pollution and benefit oil producers.

Trump, on the other hand, touted the rollback as a victory for the domestic auto industry, saying the decision would end the electric vehicle mandate imposed by Biden and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.