Gas Prices at Four-Year High Amid Iran Conflict

Americans are paying markedly more at the pump as the conflict with Iran continues to disrupt oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The national average reached $4.56 per gallon over Memorial Day weekend, according to AAA, up 51 percent from levels just before the fighting began on February 28. Multiple polls now link those prices to shifting voter sentiment. An Overton Insights survey found 57 percent of registered voters less likely to support Republicans because of higher gas costs, with the figure rising to 64 percent among independents. A separate PBS News/NPR/Marist poll showed 63 percent of Americans blaming President Trump for the increases. Inflation data released for April placed the year-over-year rate at 3.8 percent, the highest since 2023, with energy costs the largest contributor. House Republicans face the November midterms with a five-seat majority and generic-ballot averages showing Democrats ahead by roughly seven points. Several GOP members, including Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Don Bacon, have publicly questioned whether the party’s messaging on affordability remains credible. White House discussions scheduled for this week will address both the military campaign and possible diplomatic off-ramps, though analysts at Wood Mackenzie note that any sustained closure of the Strait could push Brent crude toward $200 a barrel by year-end.