(File Photo: Source for Photo: The per-gallon prices for regular unleaded and diesel fuel are displayed on a sign outside a Murphy Express gasoline station, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Centennial, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Washington, D.C.) President Donald Trump said in a phone interview with CBS News on Monday that he wants to temporarily suspend the federal gas tax.

“I think it’s a great idea. Yup, we’re going to take off the gas tax for a period of time, and when gas goes down, we’ll let it phase back in.” Trump said.

According to AAA, gas prices have risen more than 50% since the start of the Iran war on Feb. 28, reaching more than $4.52 per gallon on Sunday. Analysts say prices are expected to remain elevated as Iran continues blocking access to the Strait of Hormuz.

However, suspending the federal excise tax — 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon for diesel — would require approval from Congress. Analysts estimate the move would cost the federal government roughly $500 million per week.