Americans Disillusioned with Trump as Gas Prices Spike Across U.S.

War in Iran and rising fuel costs erode support for former president

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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As gas prices surge across the United States due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, Americans from across the political spectrum are expressing growing disillusionment with former President Donald Trump. Many voters who supported Trump in the last election now feel let down by his inability to keep his campaign promises of lowering energy costs. The spike in fuel prices is impacting people's daily lives and commutes, leading some to reconsider their political allegiances ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Why it matters

The rise in gas prices is a tangible economic impact of the U.S. military action in Iran, which has divided the country politically. The issue is uniting Americans in their frustration with elected leaders, potentially shifting voter sentiment ahead of crucial midterm elections.

The details

Gas prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, with the national average reaching $3.48 per gallon on Monday, up from $2.90 a month earlier before the conflict in Iran began. This is putting a strain on household budgets, forcing some Americans to cut back on driving or other expenses. While some support the military action against Iran, many feel the president's promises of lower energy costs have not materialized.

  • The national average gas price was $2.90 a month ago, before the war in Iran.
  • The national average gas price reached $3.48 per gallon on Monday.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who promised to bring down gas prices but is now facing backlash as fuel costs spike due to the conflict in Iran.

Francisco Castillo

A 43-year-old factory worker in Iowa who voted for Trump in the last election but is now disillusioned with the president's inability to deliver on his promises.

Robert Coon

A resident of Omaha, Nebraska who believes the strikes in Iran needed to happen but fears the U.S. involvement will not go as planned.

Ray Albrecht

A 67-year-old independent voter from Wisconsin who is still able to afford to travel with his large camper, but says he would stop if gas reaches $5 per gallon.

Kathryn Price Engelhard

A 70-year-old retired nonprofit executive director and strong Democrat in Pennsylvania who has had to cut back on home heating oil and gas purchases due to the rising costs.

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What they’re saying

“I thought that he was going to bring some of those things back, but the war in Iran is now making everything worse.”

— Francisco Castillo, Factory worker (Fortune)

“We're putting an end to all of this threat once and for all, and the result will be lower oil prices, oil and gas prices for American families.”

— Donald Trump (Fortune)

“I've been pretty grateful that the gas prices have been really reasonable' at least until the last week.”

— Ray Albrecht, Independent voter (Fortune)

“If I had to go to work or something like that, gas prices would be ridiculous.”

— Vivian Knight, Former exterminator on disability (Fortune)

“The gas price could have gone down to two cents a gallon and I'd vote against him.”

— Joey Perillo, Volunteer firefighter, retired actor, and political independent (Fortune)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.