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Trump Seeks Gas Tax Halt, Prices Still 35% Higher

5/19/2026

22 2 Full Breakdown

Center

Trump Suspends Gas Tax

NBC News analysis says suspending all gasoline taxes would keep prices about 35% above levels at the Iran war’s start.
President Donald Trump announced intention to suspend the 18-cent per-gallon federal gasoline tax, requiring congressional action.
Gasoline hit $4.50 per gallon, over 50% higher since the Iran war began in February.
One state’s gasoline tax suspension coincided with Democrats’ March proposal to suspend the federal tax.

Left

Trump SPR Release

The administration launched the fastest-ever drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to ease gasoline costs.
President Donald Trump ordered the rapid release of SPR oil, aiming to lower pump prices nationwide.
Analysts estimate a gas-tax holiday saves $35 per tank but costs Highway Trust Fund $11.5 billion.
Veterans warn a Strait of Hormuz blockage could spark fighting and raise Brent to $150.

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Trump Suspends Gas Tax

NBC News analysis says suspending all gasoline taxes would keep prices about 35% above levels at the Iran war’s start.
President Donald Trump announced intention to suspend the 18-cent per-gallon federal gasoline tax, requiring congressional action.
Gasoline hit $4.50 per gallon, over 50% higher since the Iran war began in February.
One state’s gasoline tax suspension coincided with Democrats’ March proposal to suspend the federal tax.

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