As national gas prices approach $4.50 per gallon, a federal gas tax suspension is under consideration by President Trump and his cabinet. While such a move, requiring Congressional approval, could offer relief, an NBC News analysis indicates that even with all state and federal taxes removed, gas prices would still be significantly higher than at the start of the Iran war. Currently, an average of 51 cents in taxes and fees is added to each gallon, with 18 cents going to the federal government.
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This recent action appears to be a retaliatory measure, targeting states that voted against President Trump in the 2024 election, particularly those with Democratic senators, and which also contribute significantly to the U.S. GDP. Simultaneously, the Trump administration has frozen $18 billion in infrastructure funding for New York City, citing the use of “unconstitutional DEI principles” as the reason. The Department of Energy has not provided any further comments on these decisions.
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The Trump administration’s Army Corps work plans reveal a redirection of over $250 million from infrastructure projects in Democratic-leaning states, notably eliminating all funding for California, to Republican-led states. This prioritization, condemned by Representatives DeLauro and Kaptur, risks delaying crucial safety projects nationwide and represents a politicization of critical infrastructure investments. The move follows a Republican-backed budget cut of $1.4 billion (44%) to the Corps of Engineers, granting the administration full discretion over project allocation, a power previously held by Congress. This action undermines Congress’s intent and harms all Americans regardless of political affiliation.
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John Q. Hosedrinker