Offshore drilling is an issue that continues to come up in conversations across our coastal communities. With rising energy costs and ongoing debates about California’s energy future, I wanted to hear directly from you – where do you stand?
The response was clear.
More than 75% of respondents said they oppose new offshore drilling along California’s coast, with a strong majority expressing firm opposition. This reflects a deep concern not just about environmental risks, but about protecting the character, economy, and natural beauty of our coastal communities.
At the same time, the conversation doesn’t end there.
A significant portion of respondents also expressed concern about energy affordability and reliability, showing that residents recognize the complexity of the issue. But one thing is increasingly understood: offshore drilling would not meaningfully lower gas prices for California families. Oil produced off our coast is sold on a global market, meaning prices are driven by global supply and demand – not just local production.
That’s why many residents support exploring responsible, in-state energy solutions that improve reliability and reduce dependence on foreign sources, without putting our coastline at risk.
What stood out most is that our community isn’t looking for extreme solutions – they’re looking for balance.
Residents want to protect our coastline, but they also understand the importance of stable, affordable energy. That means thoughtful policies that prioritize environmental stewardship while addressing the real cost pressures families are facing every day, without relying on solutions that sound good in theory but don’t deliver real relief.
These results reinforce what I hear from constituents across the district: we need practical, responsible energy solutions – not one-size-fits-all mandates that ignore the realities on the ground.
I will continue fighting for policies that protect our coast, strengthen our energy future, and ensure that California families are not left behind when it comes to affordability.