Trending Now - Trump's Policies Contribute to Rising Gas Prices for Americans

WHO:

President Donald Trump

CNN anchor Boris Sanchez

CNN analyst Harry Enten

Kevin Hassett, Trump's economic advisor

Reuters/Ipsos

WHAT:

Gas prices have risen by about 30 percent since February 28, 2026.

Average gas prices increased from $2.90 per gallon in mid-February to $3.90 per gallon as of March 19, 2026.

55 percent of respondents in a Reuters/Ipsos poll reported their household finances were affected “somewhat” or “a great deal” by rising gas prices.

63 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, with an approval rating of 29 percent.

87 percent of respondents believe gas prices will rise even further.

Trump's net approval rating on gas prices is -39 points overall and -53 points among Independents.

Trump is below 50 percent approval, which historically correlates with losing an average of 35 House seats in midterm elections.

WHERE:

Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania

Strait of Hormuz

South Pars gas field

Qatar

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

WHEN:

February 28, 2026: Trump first attacked Iran.

March 19, 2026: Average gas price reported at $3.90 per gallon.

Early February 2026: Trump claimed to have “fixed” the affordability crisis.

December 2025: Trump spoke at an affordability event.

WHY:

Rising gas prices are attributed to Trump's war on Iran and subsequent military actions.

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes is a contributing factor.

Trump's economic policies and military actions are causing public discontent regarding the cost of living.

HOW:

Trump reportedly considering a military attack on Iran's Kharg Island to pressure the regime to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated that consumer pain is “the last of our concerns right now.”

(UPDATED March 21, 2026 07:13 UTC)

Gas prices have surged by about 30 percent since February 28, reaching an average of $3.90 per gallon as of March 19, which has left 55 percent of respondents in a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll feeling that their household finances have been significantly impacted. President Trump faces growing disapproval over his economic management, with only 29 percent of Americans approving of his handling of the economy, while a staggering 87 percent believe gas prices will continue to rise. As tensions escalate due to Trump's military actions against Iran, including a potential attack on Kharg Island, public discontent is mounting, reflected in his net approval rating on gas prices, which stands at a concerning -39 points overall.