WASHINGTON –President Donald Trumpsaid he wants to suspend the federal tax on gasoline amid soaring energy prices duringthe United States' war with Iran.
"I think it's a great idea," Trump said in aMay 11 phone interviewwith CBS News. "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 did not specify how long he wants to pause the tax. The federal gas tax, which is currently 18.4 cents per gallon, funds the Highway Trust Fund, which goes toward federal highways construction and maintenance as well as public transit projects.
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Addressing reporters later in the day from the Oval Office, Trump also signaled his support. "Yeah, I'm going to reduce until the ‒" Trump said, without finishing the sentence, when asked by a reporter whether he plans to suspend the federal gas tax.
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Trump added: "Let me tell you, as soon as this over with Iran, you're going to see gasoline and oil drop like a rock."
Suspending the tax would require an act of Congress. Trump, however, has sought to exert certain executive authority during his second term by citing presidential powers during national emergencies.
The average price of a gallonof regular gas in the United States is at $4.52, according to AAA, up nearly 39 cents from last month and $1.39 from last year. The high prices pose a major challenge politically for Trump and Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Reach Joey Garrison on @joeygarrison.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Trump say he wants to suspend federal gas tax amid soaring prices
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