Gas station owner speaks for every Californian with four-word message to Gavin Newsom — as another hike looms

Gas prices in Southern California are causing frustration for drivers, with many feeling the pinch of high fuel costs. Local gas station owner, Dave Bohorquez, expressed his concerns about the impact of rising gas prices on both drivers and small businesses. The looming July 1 hike in California’s gas tax, coupled with already high prices, is creating a challenging situation for many.

Bohorquez, who owns Valley Center Oil, highlighted the struggles faced by customers as they try to cope with the increasing costs. He mentioned customers coming in with piles of change just to put enough fuel in their vehicles to get to work. The strain on customers is not only affecting them but also translating into declining business performance for gas stations like his.

California’s gas prices are among the highest in the nation, currently hovering around $5.93 per gallon, well above the national average. The recent global oil tensions tied to Iran have caused temporary fluctuations in prices, adding to the uncertainty in the market. Bohorquez noted that the volatile nature of the oil market, with rapid swings in wholesale fuel costs, is making it difficult for small, family-run stations to stay profitable.

The impact of fluctuating wholesale prices is particularly challenging for smaller stations that don’t do as much volume. Bohorquez explained that they can’t easily drop prices to match wholesale costs if they have already purchased fuel at higher prices. The uncertainty in global supply routes and the sporadic nature of the market make it hard to predict trends and stay ahead of the game.

Despite the challenges, Bohorquez remains hopeful that they can ride through the tough times. He emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses during these trying times and urged customers to be mindful of the impact of high gas prices on both drivers and local gas station owners. As the situation continues to evolve, it’s essential for everyone to come together and find ways to navigate through the complexities of the current oil market.