U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced support for temporarily suspending the federal gasoline tax as fuel prices surge across the United States due to the ongoing Iran war and disruptions in global oil shipments. Speaking at the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said he favors reducing the 18.4-cent federal gas tax “till it’s appropriate,” though such a move would require approval from Congress, currently controlled by Republicans.
The proposal comes as gasoline prices in the U.S. climbed to an average of $4.52 per gallon, driven largely by tensions in the Middle East and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route handling nearly 20% of global oil shipments. Republican Senator Josh Hawley announced plans to introduce legislation seeking a 90-day suspension of both the gasoline and diesel taxes to ease pressure on consumers and businesses.
Despite growing support for relief measures, some lawmakers remain cautious. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be more effective in lowering fuel prices, while experts warned that suspending the tax may offer only limited relief if supply disruptions continue. Rising fuel costs have also intensified political pressure ahead of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, as higher transportation expenses threaten to increase the prices of groceries and other essential goods.
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