California’s energy policies have made the state uniquely vulnerable to geopolitical events like war in the Middle East.

A new Californians for Energy Independence ad argues:

“When crisis hits overseas, our state gets punched harder at the pump. That’s because California’s policies are pushing our refineries to close, forcing us to import fuel – handing control of our energy supply to volatile foreign countries.”

California drivers already pay the most for gasoline in the U.S., with prices nearly 50% higher than the national average. Thanks to the state’s reliance on imports, experts say gas prices could reach record highs if the conflict with Iran continues.

Or as the ad puts it:

“As global conflict erupts, our access to energy is threatened and our prices spike. Californians are paying the price for our state’s failed energy policies.”

View the new ad here: