Corporate pilot on rising costs in California: 'These people voted for commie policies resulting in higher prices'

Jojo Gutierrez Reyes, a corporate pilot for Monolithic Power Systems, attributed California's rising prices to progressive policies and the residents who support them. He expressed this view in a post on X.

"The only prices rising are in California," said Reyes. "These people voted for commie policies. Resulting in higher prices. It is no wonder why they're attending these leftist rallies."

Reyes' comments emerge amid increasing costs across various sectors in California. One contributing factor is Assembly Bill 1228, which raised the minimum wage for fast-food workers to $20 per hour. According to the Employment Policies Institute, this legislation has led to the loss of over 16,000 jobs by early 2024 as businesses grapple with higher labor expenses. The law, effective April 1, 2024, applies to chains with at least 60 locations nationwide and has resulted in closures and layoffs. Industry groups argue that while the policy intended to support workers, it has also prompted increased automation and operational cutbacks.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) reported in April 2025 that the average price of gasoline in California was $4.85 per gallon, significantly above the national average of $3.62. AAA attributes these high prices to the state’s environmental regulations, elevated taxes, and limited in-state refineries. The state's gas tax alone is 68.1 cents per gallon, adding financial strain on residents.

California's insurance market is also under pressure due to natural disasters. Axios reports that State Farm experienced $7.6 billion in insured losses from California wildfires and has applied for a 17% rate increase to stabilize its operations. Several major insurers have limited or withdrawn coverage from fire-prone areas, increasing reliance on the state’s FAIR Plan, which seeks $1 billion in new funding from participating insurers. This situation complicates home insurance affordability and availability for residents.

In response to these rising costs, the California Consumer Advocates for Affordability and Safety (CA CAS) has advocated for reforms aimed at reducing financial pressures. The organization supports measures to prevent lawsuit abuse, lower energy and insurance costs, and promote transparent regulatory practices. CA CAS positions itself as a watchdog protecting working families from overregulation and rising consumer prices, aligning with Reyes' concerns about progressive policies' impacts.

According to RocketReach, Reyes currently serves as a Corporate Pilot at Monolithic Power Systems Inc., having previously worked at Clay Lacy Aviation and Silicon Valley Express/CAS among others. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Physics from San Francisco State University obtained between 1983 and 1989 and possesses technical skills including aviation safety, air charter operations, and flight logistics.