Trump Downplays High Fuel Prices Amid Iran War

President argues rising prices are 'small price to pay' for goals in Iran, sparking Democratic attacks ahead of midterms

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:00pm

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President Trump is downplaying concerns about rising gas and oil prices that have been exacerbated by the war in Iran. Both Trump and his Cabinet have described the higher prices as a 'small price to pay' to achieve their goals in Iran, and the president has argued that rising prices are good for the country since it has many oil producers who benefit. Democrats have seized on these remarks, accusing Trump of being 'out of touch' with Americans struggling with higher fuel costs.

Why it matters

The president's messaging on high fuel prices poses political risks in a midterm election year where affordability has been a key issue. Democrats are expected to seize on Trump's comments to argue he is disconnected from the concerns of average Americans, which could hurt Republican chances in the upcoming midterms.

The details

Energy prices have jumped in the wake of the conflict in Iran and the subsequent halt of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil-shipping channel. The average U.S. gasoline price was $3.63 per gallon on Friday, up 69 cents from a month prior. Trump has predicted that gas prices will soon go down, but he and his Cabinet have also described the higher prices as a 'small price to pay' for achieving their goals in Iran.

  • The average U.S. gasoline price was $3.63 per gallon on Friday, March 15, 2026.
  • Prices were up 69 cents from a month prior.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is downplaying concerns about rising gas and oil prices amid the war in Iran.

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California and a likely 2028 presidential contender, who criticized Trump's remarks about high fuel prices.

Kirsten Gillibrand

A Democratic senator from New York who called Trump 'out of touch' for his comments on rising energy costs.

Ed Markey

A Democratic senator from Massachusetts who criticized the Trump administration's messaging on the impact of high fuel prices on American families.

Pete Hegseth

The U.S. Defense Secretary who said people 'don't need to worry' about the Strait of Hormuz, drawing criticism from Democrats.

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What they’re saying

“Who's the 'WE' making 'a lot of money' from skyrocketing gas prices, @realDonaldTrump?”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (X)

“The reality is that Americans don't want another war and they don't want higher prices at the pump.”

— Kirsten Gillibrand, U.S. Senator (X)

“This morning, Pete Hegseth said, 'Don't worry about it.' Well, the people pulling up to the pump today, they're worried about it.”

— Ed Markey, U.S. Senator (Press conference)

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.