Trump is facing renewed criticism after dismissing concerns about rising fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran, telling reporters that gasoline prices are “not very high, relatively speaking” despite a sharp increase at the pump for many Americans.
The comments come as the national average price for gasoline remains above $4 per gallon, roughly $1 higher than it was a year ago. Energy markets have been disrupted by the war and the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. Analysts say the conflict has contributed to higher fuel costs, increased inflation, and rising prices across the broader economy.
Trump has repeatedly argued that the fuel-price increases are temporary and has maintained that prices will fall once the conflict is resolved. He has also suggested that higher oil prices benefit the United States because it is a major oil producer.
Critics, however, say the president’s remarks risk appearing disconnected from the financial pressures facing ordinary Americans. Recent polling shows widespread concern about fuel costs, with a majority of Americans expecting gasoline prices to remain elevated or rise further over the coming year. Trump’s approval ratings on cost-of-living issues have also weakened amid continued inflation concerns.
Trump’s comments are viewed as “out of touch”; minimizing the impact of higher fuel prices ignores the real burden many households face every time they fill up their tanks.