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Energy Secretary Warns Gas Prices May Remain High Until 2027
Secretary Chris Wright acknowledges gas prices could stay above $3 per gallon for over a year, contradicting earlier White House claims of a 'short-term' spike.
Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:25pm
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In a televised interview, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that gasoline prices in the United States have likely peaked but could remain elevated above $3 per gallon until 2027, undermining earlier assurances from the White House that the price surge would be temporary. Wright's comments reflect the ongoing disruption to global oil supply and shipping caused by the conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
Why it matters
High gas prices have become a major political liability for the Trump administration, with Republicans worried about the impact on voters in the upcoming midterm elections. Wright's statements contradict the President's previous claims that the price spike would be short-lived, raising further questions about the administration's ability to address the economic fallout from the ongoing regional conflict.
The details
In early March, Wright had predicted that average gas prices would fall below $3 per gallon within 'weeks' after the U.S. and Israel initiated airstrikes against Iran. However, in a Sunday interview, Wright acknowledged that prices may not return to pre-war levels of around $2.98 per gallon until 2027, after accounting for inflation. The disruption of shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint, has pushed up global oil prices and led to higher prices at the pump for American consumers.
- In early March, Wright predicted gas prices would fall below $3 per gallon within weeks.
- On Sunday, Wright stated gas prices may not return to pre-war levels of $2.98 per gallon until 2027.
The players
Chris Wright
The current U.S. Secretary of Energy, appointed by President Trump.
President Trump
The 46th President of the United States, who promised affordable gas prices during his 2024 campaign.
What they’re saying
“I don't know. That could happen later this year. That might not happen until next year. But prices have likely peaked.”
— Chris Wright, U.S. Secretary of Energy
“I guess they're surrendering.”
— Tom Suozzi, U.S. Representative, New York Democrat
“Americans literally can't afford the Trump presidency.”
— Ken Martin, Chairman, Democratic National Committee
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.
