Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Sunday that the Trump administration is willing to consider suspending the federal gas tax as a way to bring relief to American drivers facing sharply higher fuel costs.
In an interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Wright told moderator Kristen Welker that the administration is “open to all ideas” to lower prices at the pump. When asked directly about pausing the federal gas tax, which adds about 18 cents per gallon, Wright replied, “We’re open to all ideas.” He added that “everything has trade-offs,” but emphasized that the administration supports any steps that would reduce costs for families.
Gas prices have risen dramatically in recent weeks. The national average reached $4.52 per gallon on Sunday, according to AAA data. That represents an increase of more than 50 percent since the start of the conflict with Iran.
Democrats in Congress proposed a bill in March to temporarily suspend the federal gas tax through October. Wright’s comments suggest the White House is not ruling out similar measures.
Wright avoided making specific predictions about whether prices could hit $5 per gallon, calling such forecasts difficult in the short or medium term. He instead pointed to the strength of U.S. oil and natural gas production, saying the country remains in a strong position.
The price surge is tied to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. Wright described U.S. efforts as focused on ending a long-standing conflict, noting Iran’s history of hostility toward the United States and Israel.
In March, Wright had predicted that gas prices could fall below $3 per gallon by summer. Eight weeks later, however, prices have continued to rise with no quick return to pre-war levels in sight.
On CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Wright was asked about “Project Freedom,” a U.S. operation aimed at keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. He said the military option remains on the table if diplomatic efforts fail in the coming days. “The economic pressure on Iran right now is increasing dramatically,” he noted.
Experts believe Iran could endure U.S. sanctions and a port blockade for months, though such measures would eventually cut off important revenue from its oil sales.
As gas prices remain a major concern for voters during this midterm election year, the administration’s openness to a gas tax suspension signals a willingness to take short-term steps while longer-term efforts to resolve the Iran conflict continue.
