Trump's energy boss: gas may stay above $3-per-gallon into 2027

Ben Geman

Gas station sign in Miami displays fuel prices as global oil costs rise. — Fuel prices are posted at a Miami gas station on April 13, 2026. Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

U.S. average gasoline prices may not return to pre-Iran war levels under $3-per-gallon until next year, Energy Secretary Chris Wright told CNN Sunday.

Why it matters: The Iran war has driven up what had been fairly low U.S. gas prices, a spike that could hurt Republicans in the midterm elections.

Driving the news: Asked Sunday when Americans should expect gas under $3, Wright replied, "That could happen later this year. That might not happen until next year."

"But prices have likely peaked, and they'll start going down, certainly with a resolution of this conflict, you'll see prices go down," he said on CNN's "State of the Union."

State of play: Wright added that under $3 is "pretty tremendous" in inflation-adjusted terms. He argued the Trump administration has successfully managed the historic disruption.

Prices reached their highest point so far this year at $4.16 per gallon earlier this month and now are at $4.05, per AAA data.
Wright emphasized that the highest point this year is still $1 below the Biden-era peak in 2022.

What we're watching: A CBS News/YouGov poll this month found that 51% of adults said gasoline prices have been either "difficult" or a "financial hardship" for family finances.

It's among multiple polls showing concern about pump prices.

Go deeper: Renewable energy gets an Iran war boost

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Trump's energy boss: gas may stay above $3-per-gallon into 2027

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