Gas Prices and Voter Concerns Ahead of Midterms

A recent Fox News poll highlights a significant concern for American voters: gasoline prices. The poll reveals that 61 percent of voters see gas prices as a major issue. Currently, the average price for regular gasoline exceeds $4.40 per gallon, according to AAA. On Thursday, the national average stood at $4.4386, up from previous days and weeks.

These rising prices, occurring as November elections approach, have fueled ongoing concerns about affordability in the United States. Former President Donald Trump has suggested the conflict with Iran might end after the midterms, downplaying the impact of rising gas prices and inflation concerns. In a talk from North Carolina, Trump remarked, “It’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done.” He predicted that prices will drop significantly soon.

The Fox News poll shows registered voters feeling financial strain due to high fuel prices. A notable rise from two years ago, 61 percent view gas prices as a major problem. Additionally, diesel prices reached $6.31 on Wednesday, amplifying frustrations among farmers. Some parts of California report gas prices nearing or exceeding $10 per gallon, creating challenges for gas stations using three-digit displays.

“Gas above $4.40 with 61% of voters calling it a major problem is a real warning for Republicans,” commented Craig Agranoff, a political professor at Florida Atlantic University.

The poll also assessed opinions on the Trump administration’s impact on the economy. Sixty-three percent of voters believe the economy worsened under Trump, with 73 percent of independents agreeing. A majority of 55 percent believe Democrats could better manage inflation and pricing issues compared to 40 percent who favor Republicans.

Concerns extend beyond gas prices. The poll indicates 62 percent find grocery prices a major issue, 52 percent are troubled by healthcare costs, and 54 percent highlight housing costs as problematic. Conducted between September 11-14, 2026, by Beacon Research and Shaw & Company Research, the poll surveyed 1,211 registered voters and reports a 3 percent margin of error.

Midterm elections serve to assess the ruling party’s performance, with historical trends indicating seat losses for the president’s party. Currently, Republicans hold a slim majority in Congress. Trump plans to campaign for vital seats in November as affordability continues to dominate voter concerns.

Trump addressed economic concerns on Truth Social, attributing price hikes to President Joe Biden’s administration. He stated, “Even Oil was higher under Biden than it is now.” According to AAA, the peak price for regular gas was $5.0165 on June 14, 2022, during Biden’s presidency.