California just lost another refinery — and within days, gas prices surged to $5.83 per gallon.
On April 14th, 2026, the Valero Benicia Refinery stopped producing gasoline after 25 years of operation. What followed wasn’t just a price spike — it exposed a deeper problem that’s been building for decades.
In this video, we break down exactly why California gas prices are the highest in America, how the state lost over 30% of its refining capacity since 2020, and why it now depends on fuel imports from countries like India and South Korea. From strict fuel regulations to geographic isolation and a mysterious unexplained price surcharge costing drivers billions — this is the full story behind the crisis.
We also look at the real-world impact: $7+ diesel, rising food prices, struggling trucking companies, and cities losing millions in tax revenue. And with another refinery potentially on the chopping block, this situation may only get worse.
This isn’t just about gas prices. It’s about how an entire system became fragile — and what happens next
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