LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, California Environmental Voters (EnviroVoters) released the following statement on Big Oil’s influence in the Governor’s race.
Statement from Matt Abularach-Macias, Political & Organizing Director California Environmental Voters:
“Californians deserve to know who’s trying to buy influence in this governor’s race, and once again, it’s Big Oil writing checks while families pay the price. Voters are fed up with corporate polluters calling the shots, yet too many candidates are still taking oil money. At a time when people are struggling with rising costs and unnatural disasters fueled by corporate polluters, taking oil money is out of step with what Californians want from their next Governor.”
Polling conducted by California Environmental Voters Education Fund shows 93% of Californians want to reduce corporate influence on elected officials. Additional polling affirms Democrats and Independents understand that big corporations and billionaires have too much control over our government.
EnviroVoters’ Scorecard has shown that Democrats who take oil money side with Big Oil and corporate polluters.
– Average score of Democrats who don’t take oil money: 89% (B+) –
– Average score of Democrats who take oil money: 66% (D) –
– Average Republican score (all took oil money): 14%
Oil campaign contributions:
Xavier Becerra: $39,200 from Chevron on June 16, 2025
Chad Bianco: $10,000 from Signal Hill Petroleum Inc
Matt Mahan: $20,000 from Robinson Oil Corp on Feb 11, 2026
Antonio Villaraigosa: $39,200 from Chevron on June 16, 2025 & $39,200 from Marathon Petroleum on Dec 30, 2025
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CONTACT:
Erika Guzman Cornejo
(310) 755-1615
erika@envirovoters.org
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ABOUT CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL VOTERS
California Environmental Voters (EnviroVoters) believes the climate crisis is here and this moment requires transformative change. California has the policy solutions to stop climate change but lacks the political will to do it at the rate and scale that’s necessary. EnviroVoters exists to build the political power to solve the climate crisis, advance justice, and create a roadmap for global action. We organize voters, elect and train candidates, and hold lawmakers accountable for bold policy change. We won’t stop until we have resilient, healthy, thriving communities, and a democracy and economy that is just and sustainable for all. Join us at www.envirovoters.org and on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. See more press releases.
