Trump Secretary Throws Him Under The Bus

Energy Secretary Chris Wright appeared to put some distance between himself and President Donald Trump’s handling of rising gas prices when pressed about what Americans can expect to pay at the pump.

During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Wright was asked whether gasoline prices could climb even higher as the war involving Iran continues, oil markets remain unsettled and concerns grow over U.S. fuel supplies.

Rather than predict where prices were headed, Wright initially said he did not want to offer an opinion. He pointed instead to the futures market, saying gasoline contracts for delivery roughly two months ahead were trading more than 30 cents below current prices.

When pressed again, Wright offered a cautious forecast: if he had to guess, prices were more likely to decline than increase.

For critics of the Trump administration, Wright’s response could be viewed as throwing the president under the bus at a politically difficult moment. Trump has faced growing scrutiny over the impact of the conflict on household costs, while his administration has emphasized its efforts to bring energy prices down.

The price pressure is already visible at gas stations. AAA reported a national average of about $4.15 per gallon on Sept. 7, with the average having remained above $4 throughout August. AAA said continued volatility surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to elevated crude oil prices and fuel costs.

Wright’s CNN appearance came as Americans were dealing with some of the highest gasoline prices seen in years. The network’s transcript showed him arguing that the end of the summer driving season could help ease pressure because gasoline demand is expected to decline. He also pointed to changes made by the Trump administration to fuel-blending requirements, which he said would allow refiners to produce more gasoline.

The secretary also defended the administration’s broader energy policies, saying the White House was working to bring energy costs down. But his reluctance to predict the direction of prices put him in an awkward position when asked directly about a subject that has become increasingly important to consumers.

Gas prices have become particularly sensitive because higher fuel costs can affect more than just drivers. Transportation expenses can work their way into the prices of groceries, manufactured goods and other products, making energy costs an important economic issue for households.

The White House is also dealing with the political consequences of the Iran conflict. Trump has argued that the military operation will not significantly hurt Republican candidates heading into the November midterm elections and has emphasized his administration’s position that Iran should not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.

But with gasoline prices now sitting above $4 a gallon nationally, the administration faces a more immediate concern for consumers: whether prices at the pump will finally begin moving lower or whether another surge is coming.

Wright’s answer offered some reassurance, but not a guarantee. His prediction was that prices are more likely to fall — leaving drivers to wait and see whether the futures market proves him right.