US Gas Average Hits $4.43 Amid Iran War

The national average price for a gallon of gasoline reached $4.43 on September 17. This figure represents a seven-cent rise from the previous day. It is 37 cents higher than the level recorded one month ago. The price has climbed more than $1.20 since this time last year. According to the American Automobile Association, the trend shows no signs of slowing down.

President Donald Trump addressed the surge at a rally in Gastonia, North Carolina, on September 16. He described the higher costs as a small price to pay for the ongoing conflict with Iran. The president stated that prices would eventually fall sharply. He used the metaphor of rocket ships in reverse to describe the expected drop. His comments came days after a Republican midterm convention in Dallas.

Polling Data Shows Sliding Approval

A Marquette University Law School Poll released on September 15 shows a decline in support. The president’s overall approval rating stands at 37%. This is his lowest score in Marquette’s tracking since early 2025. Eight specific issues saw drops in approval compared to July. These issues include border security, immigration, and foreign policy.

Economic concerns drive much of the dissatisfaction. Only 19% of respondents approved of the handling of inflation and cost of living. Approval for the management of gas prices stood at 20%. These figures indicate a significant gap between public sentiment and official rhetoric. The war with Iran has been ongoing for more than six months.

Political Context and Rally Atmosphere

The rally in North Carolina featured GOP Senate candidate Michael Whatley. He is running against Democrat Roy Cooper. Trump used the event to boost party enthusiasm. He framed the economic pain as a temporary setback. His comments aimed to reframe the narrative around the Iran war. The focus remained on long-term strategic gains over short-term costs.

Market Data and Source Attribution

The pricing data aligns with reports from GN auto markets/energy: gasoline prices. These sources track daily fluctuations in fuel costs. The $4.43 average reflects broader supply chain pressures. Investors and consumers are monitoring these shifts closely. The duration of the conflict remains the primary variable affecting future prices.