Americans have paid slightly more for gasoline and significantly more for diesel during President Donald Trump’s second term than during Joe Biden’s presidency, according to new data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), reported by Reuters on October 26.
The findings come just days before the November 3 midterm elections, as rising energy costs continue to put pressure on American households and businesses.
Gasoline Prices Exceed Biden’s Average
According to AAA data, the average price of regular gasoline during Trump’s second term has reached $3.472 per gallon, compared with $3.471 during Biden’s presidency.
Although the difference is extremely small, it marks a notable development given Trump’s repeated campaign promises to reduce fuel prices.
Diesel prices show a much larger difference.
During Trump’s second term, diesel has averaged $4.343 per gallon, compared with $4.078 under Biden — an increase of approximately 26.5 cents per gallon.
The national average price of regular gasoline stood at approximately $4.28 per gallon on October 26.
Wars and Global Oil Disruptions Push Prices Higher
The ongoing conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine have contributed to disruptions in global oil production, transportation, and fuel supplies.
The war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has particularly affected energy markets around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transportation routes.
As a result, fuel prices have remained elevated despite efforts to stabilize global supplies.
On September 22, U.S. diesel prices reached a record $6.523 per gallon, according to Reuters.
Higher Diesel Prices Affect More Than Drivers
Diesel is essential for trucking, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and freight transportation.
When diesel prices increase, businesses often face higher operating costs, which can eventually affect the prices consumers pay for food and other products.
For New Jersey, where transportation, warehousing, and distribution are important parts of the economy, rising fuel costs remain a significant concern.
According to AAA figures reported on October 26, regular gasoline in New Jersey averaged approximately $4.17 per gallon.
Fuel Prices Become a Political Issue Before the Midterms
The latest figures arrive as Republicans prepare to defend their congressional majorities in the November 3 elections.
A Reuters/Ipsos survey published October 19 found that Trump’s overall approval rating had fallen to 31%, while only 23% of respondents approved of his handling of the economy.
Rising gasoline prices have become one of several economic concerns affecting voters, alongside housing costs, groceries, and household utility bills.
The White House did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment on the latest AAA figures.
Why the Comparison Matters
The AAA figures compare average fuel prices across two different presidential periods.
Biden served a full four-year term, while Trump’s second term remains ongoing. The comparison also does not adjust prices for inflation.
Fuel prices are influenced by global supply and demand, geopolitical conflicts, refinery capacity, and domestic energy policies. They cannot be attributed entirely to the actions of any single president.
Nevertheless, the figures highlight a significant political and economic question: whether the administration can deliver lower energy costs while global oil markets remain under pressure.
With the congressional elections approaching, gasoline and diesel prices remain a visible measure of the financial pressures facing American consumers.
Sources: Reuters, October 26, 2026; American Automobile Association (AAA); Reuters/Ipsos Poll, October 19, 2026.
By NJ RADAR Team