California's Energy Crisis Threatens National Security

Katy Grimes, Editor-in-Chief of the California Globe, calls the state a 'rogue' threat to the country

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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In a discussion with the Energy News Beat podcast, Katy Grimes, Editor-in-Chief of the California Globe, criticized Governor Gavin Newsom's leadership and policies, particularly around the state's energy crisis and public safety issues. Grimes argued that California's over-reliance on imported oil and gas, coupled with Newsom's controversial decisions, have created a situation that poses national security risks.

Why it matters

California's energy challenges, including the shutdown of refineries and pipelines, have forced the state to become heavily dependent on imported oil and gas, affecting jet fuel supplies for military installations across the western U.S. This raises concerns about national security, as the state's instability could have broader implications for the country.

The details

Grimes discussed how Newsom's energy policies and public safety decisions, such as the release of a convicted serial abuser from prison, have exacerbated California's problems. She suggested that Newsom's political ambitions may be taking priority over addressing the state's urgent issues. The discussion also explored reform efforts through organizations like Fix California and Reform California, which are working to address voter fraud and gerrymandering, as well as the possibility of federal intervention through agencies like the Department of Energy.

  • On February 24, 2026, Sacramento Sheriff Jim Cooper slammed Governor Gavin Newsom's 'elderly parole program' that allowed the release of a serial child rapist.
  • On December 1, 2025, Katy Grimes criticized Newsom for eviscerating California's energy system, leading to the potential for $8-$10 gasoline and diesel prices.

The players

Katy Grimes

Editor-in-Chief of the California Globe, a news outlet that has been critical of Governor Newsom's leadership and policies.

Gavin Newsom

The current Governor of California, whose energy policies and public safety decisions have been the subject of criticism.

Jim Cooper

The Sacramento Sheriff who slammed Newsom's 'elderly parole program' that allowed the release of a serial child rapist.

David Funston

A serial child rapist who was released from prison due to Newsom's 'elderly parole program'.

Stu Turley

The host of the Energy News Beat podcast, who discussed the energy crisis in California with Katy Grimes.

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What they’re saying

“This shows you, not only does this need to be hung around the neck of Gavin Newsom as he travels around the country on his book tour and presidential campaign, but I think it shows you the absolute lunacy of the politics in the state of California right now. That's why I call it a rogue state.”

— Katy Grimes, Editor-in-Chief, California Globe (Energy News Beat)

“So this is as serious as a heart attack and we've got a governor running around Europe, even though he says he can't find his birth certificate and doesn't know how he can get a passport, he's running around in Europe talking about everything but the crises that frankly he's created in our state.”

— Katy Grimes, Editor-in-Chief, California Globe (Energy News Beat)

“So I really do believe there's got to be some federal legislation on the horizon that addresses this because you cannot allow one rogue state to screw up the rest of the country.”

— Katy Grimes, Editor-in-Chief, California Globe (Energy News Beat)

“He's eviscerated the entire system. You're going to see eight to $10 gasoline and diesel here very quickly.”

— Stu Turley, Host, Energy News Beat (Energy News Beat)

What’s next

The Energy News Beat podcast is waiting to hear back from Senator Feterman's office to get him on the show to discuss potential federal legislation to address California's energy crisis and its national security implications.

The takeaway

California's energy crisis, driven by Governor Newsom's policies and decisions, has created a situation that poses significant national security risks, as the state's over-reliance on imported oil and gas affects critical infrastructure like military jet fuel supplies. This highlights the need for federal intervention and bipartisan solutions to address California's instability and its broader impact on the country.