Trump Invokes Defense Production Act to Restart California Offshore Oil

Trump Invokes Defense Production Act to Restart California Offshore Oil

Trump orders the Energy Department to restore Sable Offshore's Santa Ynez Unit, adding 50,000 barrels a day and preempting California climate rules to supply West Coast military bases.

Richard Miniter
First Published: August 2, 2026, 8:40 AM ET

Donald J. Trump ordered the U.S. government to restart shuttered offshore oil production off California, wielding the Defense Production Act to override state climate rules and feed West Coast military bases.