Americans Frustrated by Rising Gas Prices Amid Iran War

Voters across the political spectrum feel the pain at the pump as the conflict overseas drives up fuel costs.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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As the U.S. wages war with Iran, Americans are facing sticker shock at gas stations across the country. Voters who supported President Trump are disappointed that his promises to lower gas prices have not materialized, while others blame corporate interests and the administration's policies. Electric vehicle owners are grateful they don't have to deal with the surging prices, but many others say they'll have to cut back on driving and travel if costs continue to climb.

Why it matters

The rising gas prices are a tangible impact of the war with Iran that is being felt by Americans across the political spectrum. It's a unifying issue that is aggravating voters and raising questions about the administration's handling of the conflict and its effect on the economy.

The details

Prices at the pump have risen sharply since the start of the war, with the national average reaching $3.48 per gallon, up from $2.90 a month earlier. This is causing hardship for many Americans, especially those with long commutes or who rely on vehicles for work. Some say they may have to cut back on driving and travel if prices continue to climb, while electric vehicle owners are grateful they don't have to deal with the surging costs.

  • The national average gas price was $3.48 a gallon on Monday, up from $2.90 a month ago, before the war.

The players

Francisco Castillo

A 43-year-old factory worker who voted for President Trump in the last election but is now disappointed that his promises to lower gas prices have not materialized.

Robert Coon

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

Ray Albrecht

A 67-year-old independent voter who has been traveling the country with his 32-foot camper, but says he will stop if gas prices reach $5 per gallon.

Kathryn Price Engelhard

A 70-year-old retired nonprofit executive director and strong Democrat who has had to cut back on home heating oil due to rising prices.

Anthony Gooden

A 57-year-old resident of Redford Township, Michigan who ditched his internal combustion engine vehicle over a year ago and is glad he made the switch to an electric vehicle.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— President Donald Trump (wbal.com)

“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 (wbal.com)

“You've just got to fill it up and bite the bullet and hope that the prices go back down — that's all I can really do.”

— Tyler Nepple, 23-year-old startup founder (wbal.com)

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

— Vivian Knight, 53-year-old former exterminator on disability (wbal.com)

“Whoa, they're going through it right now. And it's only getting worse.”

— Anthony Gooden, 57-year-old electric vehicle owner (wbal.com)

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.