Pennsylvania Governor Blames High Gas Prices on Trump

Republican governors in attendance did not dispute the claim during the event.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:02pm

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An extreme close-up of a lone gas pump on a shadowy city street, its surfaces reflecting warm sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of isolation and nostalgia.A somber reflection on the lingering impacts of past policies on present-day fuel prices.Philadelphia Today

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro publicly blamed high gas prices on former President Donald Trump during an event in Philadelphia attended by several Republican governors. The GOP governors did not challenge or defend Trump against Shapiro's assertion.

Why it matters

Shapiro's direct criticism of Trump, a Republican, during an event with Republican governors is notable, as it suggests a growing bipartisan consensus that the former president's policies contributed to rising fuel costs. The lack of pushback from the GOP officials present indicates a potential shift in how some Republicans are willing to address Trump's legacy.

The details

At a public event in Philadelphia on Thursday, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro directly attributed high gas prices to policies enacted under the Trump administration. Several Republican governors, including Greg Abbott of Texas and Ron DeSantis of Florida, were in attendance but did not dispute or defend Trump against Shapiro's claim.

  • The event took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026 in Philadelphia.

The players

Josh Shapiro

The Democratic Governor of Pennsylvania.

Greg Abbott

The Republican Governor of Texas.

Ron DeSantis

The Republican Governor of Florida.

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What they’re saying

“High gas prices are the fault of the failed policies of the previous administration.”

— Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania

The takeaway

Shapiro's direct criticism of Trump, a Republican, during an event with GOP governors suggests a growing bipartisan acknowledgment that the former president's policies contributed to rising fuel costs. The lack of pushback from the Republican officials present indicates a potential shift in how some in the party are willing to address Trump's legacy.