Full Breakdown
High Gas Prices: A Bipartisan Blame Game
4/17/2026, 11:09:41 PM
Core Event: Blame for Rising Gas Prices
During a recent National Governors Association event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro attributed the rising gas prices, averaging $4.13 per gallon in Pennsylvania, to the policies of President Donald Trump, particularly referencing the ongoing international conflict. This assertion was met with agreement from Republican governors present, indicating a rare moment of bipartisan acknowledgment regarding the impact of geopolitical issues on domestic fuel costs.
Official Statements & Responses
Josh Shapiro stated, “There’s a singular reason why … the president started a war we should have never started with no plan on how to go in and clearly no plan on how to get out.” He emphasized that the high gas prices are a direct consequence of the current administration's policies. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, while not defending Trump, noted that the international conflict is indeed contributing to the increase in gas prices, stating, “It’s a global market, and that’s causing things to go up.” West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for the conflict to end to alleviate gas prices.
Criticism & Opposition
Mikie Sherrill, a Democratic governor from New Jersey, criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson's leadership, claiming it hinders progress on energy projects and bipartisan cooperation. She remarked, “I truly have never seen more incompetent leadership in the House,” pointing to the challenges in achieving legislative solutions to energy issues. Stitt also criticized the partisan focus on midterm elections, suggesting that it prevents meaningful progress on energy policies.
Background & Context
The discussion on gas prices comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions that have affected global oil supply chains. The governors discussed the need for increased energy production within the United States to reduce reliance on foreign oil. Stitt pointed out that partisan swings in leadership have historically impacted energy projects, such as the Keystone Pipeline, which has faced opposition from Democratic administrations.
What's Next: State-Level Solutions
As federal assistance appears uncertain, governors are focusing on state-level solutions to expedite energy project approvals. Shapiro expressed optimism about permitting reform in Pennsylvania, stating, “The government can be a force for good in people’s lives.” Sherrill also emphasized the importance of state control over project approvals, indicating a shift towards local governance in addressing energy challenges.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the governors agreed on the impact of international conflicts on gas prices, there remains a lack of consensus on the effectiveness of current federal leadership in addressing these issues. The discussion highlighted a divide between state and federal capabilities, with some governors expressing skepticism about the federal government's ability to provide timely solutions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “No one can deny the fact that these prices are high because of the policies of this administration,” — Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania
- “States are where the solutions are found.” — Kevin Stitt, Governor of Oklahoma
- “I truly have never seen more incompetent leadership in the House, and I think I’ve been through some pretty rough years,” — Mikie Sherrill, Governor of New Jersey
