President Donald Trump announced his intent to temporarily suspend the federal gasoline tax, a move he described as “a great idea” for Americans facing sharply higher pump prices since the start of the Iran conflict.
The decision, which Trump revealed during a phone interview with White House correspondent Nancy Cordes on Monday, would last “for a period of time” and be phased back in when gas prices decline. The president framed the measure as targeted relief for current price shocks rather than a permanent overhaul of the federal fuel tax system.
This escalation follows weekend remarks from Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who had previously signaled openness to ideas that could lower consumer costs. Trump’s comments marked a significant shift, moving the proposal from cabinet-level discussions to direct presidential endorsement.
The president also indicated support for legislative action, citing Senator Josh Hawley and Representative Anna Paulina Luna as having “a bill or something” he called “very good.” Minutes later, Hawley introduced legislation aimed at suspending the gas tax in the Senate.
With regular gasoline averaging around $4.52 per gallon and diesel near $5.64 per gallon, the proposal has immediate implications for families, commuters, truckers, and businesses nationwide.