U.S. Gas Hits $4.24 as Iran Conflict Threatens Republicans Before 2026 Midterms

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 5

$4.241 a gallon gasoline prices are already squeezing voters, with AAA showing the U.S. average up nearly 35% from $3.144 a year earlier.
Kpler says even an immediate Strait of Hormuz reopening would not quickly ease prices because trapped tankers, damaged infrastructure and inventory snarls could delay normal oil flows until the fourth quarter.
Moody's estimates the conflict has cost U.S. households about $100 billion in three months, or roughly $750 each, reinforcing Republican fears that the economic hit could outlast any diplomatic deal.
Republican strategists say relief needs to arrive by July 4 or risk bleeding into the Nov. 3 midterms, when the party will defend a narrow House majority despite a friendlier Senate map.
The White House argues the disruption is temporary and says Trump can still secure a deal with Iran, but analysts warn voters are more likely to judge the outcome by pump prices than by nuclear terms.