Story perspectives

Kernen Slams Scalise’s $6 Gas Claim, Cites $3.65 Reality

5/1/2026

Left

Kernen Challenges Scalise

Joe Kernen confronted House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, disputing Scalise’s claim that gasoline once cost nearly $6 per gallon.
During the discussion, Kernen cited an average price of $3.65 two-and-a-half years ago, contradicting Scalise’s $6 figure.
Kernen warned war-driven price spikes and glitches, noting inflation narratives now dominate 2026 House races.
Anthony Coley said President Donald Trump’s remarks after the shooting erased any goodwill.

Right

Calvert Criticizes

Rep. Ken Calvert introduced a resolution labeling California’s energy policies a wallet-busting, security-risking mess that raises gas prices.
The resolution targets California’s energy approach, claiming it contributes to higher gasoline costs nationwide.
Calvert warned that dependence on foreign oil could make the United States vulnerable.
A GasBuddy analyst said California drivers may see gasoline prices hit their highest since 2022.

Center

Kentucky Tax

Gas prices have risen to $4.18 per gallon, highest since summer 2022, prompting discussion of a one-cent fuel-tax increase in Kentucky.
A shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., left casualties and is under investigation.
John Blanton said tax could raise $30 million for roads and bridges, with ten-percent cap.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed Democratic rhetoric and DHS cuts for encouraging violence.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 Arab oil embargo, launched by OAPEC after the United States resupplied Israel during the Yom Kippur War, slashed imports and forced odd-even rationing while gasoline prices jumped 43% from 38.5¢ to 55.1¢ per gallon. Nixon’s appointment of William E. Simon to head the new Federal Energy Office highlighted fragmented policy, a backdrop echoed in today’s fuel-cost debates.

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Kernen Challenges Scalise

Joe Kernen confronted House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, disputing Scalise’s claim that gasoline once cost nearly $6 per gallon.
During the discussion, Kernen cited an average price of $3.65 two-and-a-half years ago, contradicting Scalise’s $6 figure.
Kernen warned war-driven price spikes and glitches, noting inflation narratives now dominate 2026 House races.
Anthony Coley said President Donald Trump’s remarks after the shooting erased any goodwill.

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