WASHINGTON: Trump administration officials are scrambling to contain the economic and political fallout of the war with Iran, three people familiar with the White House’s discussions told Reuters, as hopes for a quick resolution fade. US President Donald Trump this week backed suspending the federal gas tax, a step that would knock 18 cents a gallon off motor fuel prices currently averaging more than $4.50 a gallon nationwide.

Voters are souring on Trump's economy ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, and high gas prices are only adding to consumer discontent.

National average for gas prices has risen by well over a dollar per gallon since late February