Rising gas prices frustrate voters. Trump says it’s an ‘inexpensive price to pay’ for the Iran war

Edinburg, Texas (AP) — Quintin Martinez, filling up his car under the scorching South Texas sun, recalls a simpler time when buying fuel wasn't a burden. The 28-year-old Amazon delivery driver watches as gas prices continue to rise, leaving him pondering the costs of groceries and daily essentials. When asked about President Donald Trump's claim that higher gas prices are a small price to pay for the war with Iran, Martinez disagreed.

"I don’t feel like it’s a good trade-off," he said, emphasizing that the situation isn't beneficial for anyone.

Voters nationwide, spanning various political backgrounds, share Martinez's frustration. Interviews with voters from multiple states, coupled with recent national polls, reveal a widespread sense of unease over the soaring gas prices, which are a direct consequence of Trump's military actions. This growing concern is exacerbating an already challenging political landscape, potentially harming Trump and his Republican Party as early voting for the November midterm elections begins.

Historically, the party in power has faced significant losses during midterm elections. With seven weeks remaining until the election, Republican candidates at all levels are grappling with the added pressure of Trump's low approval ratings, the unpopular war, and an affordability crisis that contradicts the promises made by Trump and his congressional allies. Despite Trump's assertion that the war is crucial to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, his statements downplay the impact of rising gas prices.

Political strategists from both parties acknowledge that gas prices could be a deciding factor in the upcoming election. As the national average for a gallon of gas reaches $4.48, a 17-cent increase from the previous week and a 40-cent jump from last month, Republican strategist Chris Wilson highlights the importance of this economic indicator. Drivers experience gas prices multiple times a week, making it a tangible concern for many voters.

While some Republicans express disappointment in Trump's leadership, they still intend to support the party during the midterms. Dan Lloyd, a 63-year-old carpenter who voted for Trump, lamented the president's actions and the soaring gas prices. "He hurt himself stepping into this," Lloyd remarked, emphasizing his belief that the American people are suffering from economic hardships.

Despite his dissatisfaction, he still plans to vote for the Republicans in the upcoming election, stating that the Democratic Party has lost its way. In Edinburg, Texas, 52-year-old Kristin Jimenez, a small business owner, shrugs off the rising gas prices, noting that prices under Republican and Democratic presidents have been similar.

However, she emphasizes the need for a rational explanation as to why gas prices should be so burdensome.

Farther north in central Michigan, 35-year-old Garth Johnson, running a deep-cleaning business with gas-powered vehicles, is struggling to make ends meet as gas prices soar. Frustrated by the situation, Johnson, who voted for Trump, remains uncertain about his plans for the November election.