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Washington Today
By the People, for the People
Warning signs flash red for Republicans as Iran war drives up gas prices
Political warning signs that have privately worried some Republicans for months are starting to flash red ahead of November's midterm elections.
Mar. 26, 2026 at 1:55am
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The war in Iran has kept gas prices high, travelers face unprecedented airport security wait times, and Americans remain concerned about steep costs of living, creating political headaches for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. Democrats have won a special election in a solidly Republican district that includes former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, raising concerns for the GOP. While Trump has suggested the Iran effect is a mere economic blip, some Republicans are urging patience and trust in the president's assurances that the disruptions won't last.
Why it matters
The war in Iran and its economic impacts, including higher gas prices, could be a major liability for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections as voters express concerns about affordability and the direction of the country. Democrats are bullish about their chances, seeing the GOP's struggles as an opportunity to make gains in Congress.
The details
Gas prices have risen from around $3 per gallon before the U.S. and Israel struck Iran on February 28th to a current average of $3.98 per gallon. Higher prices at the pump tend to cascade through the economy, raising costs in other sectors. About 59% of Americans say the U.S. military strikes in Iran have been excessive, while 45% are 'extremely' or 'very' concerned about being able to afford gas in the next few months. Inflation is also expected to rise with the jump in gas prices. In another political headache, the partial government shutdown has dragged on for five weeks, sparking chaos at some of the nation's top airports.
- Gas prices were $3.12 a gallon when Democratic President Joe Biden left office and were just under $3 before the U.S. and Israel launched the war in Iran.
- The U.S. and Israel struck Iran on February 28th.
The players
Donald Trump
The former president whose Mar-a-Lago estate is located in the Florida district that flipped to Democrats in a special election.
Emily Gregory
The Democrat who won a Florida special election to flip a state legislative district that encompasses Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach.
Lisa Murkowski
A moderate Republican senator from Alaska who said her constituents are asking about the path forward in Iran and whether Trump will deploy troops there.
Mark Alford
A Missouri Republican who was among the party's lawmakers who held a news conference to blame Democrats for the government shutdown.
Ken Martin
The Democratic National Committee chair who said "If Democrats can win in Trump's own backyard, we can win anywhere."
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
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.
