Vance Called the Rise in Gasoline Prices Due to the War With Iran a “Temporary Blip”

Vice President J.D. Vance, speaking in Michigan on Wednesday, described the rise in gasoline prices amid the war in Iran as a “temporary blip.”

Responding to a reporter’s question during a campaign-style event in Auburn Hills, he acknowledged the pressure on consumers: “Look, gas prices have gone up—we know that, and we understand that it is hurting people. We are doing everything we can to keep them at a lower level.” According to him, the White House’s position remains unchanged: “The president has already said this, and I fully agree—it is a temporary blip.”

Vance also emphasized that current prices remain below the peak levels seen during the Biden administration—in June 2022, the average cost of fuel in the United States exceeded $5 per gallon. “This will not last forever,” he added, linking the current increase to the military conflict.

He assured that the situation would stabilize once the operation concludes: “We will see this through, return home, and then you will see energy prices come back to normal levels.”

Against this backdrop, Brent crude rose by 5% on Wednesday—to nearly $109 per barrel. According to AAA, the national average price of gasoline reached $3.84 per gallon.

Earlier the same day, the administration signaled its intention to introduce a 60-day waiver of Jones Act requirements—White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. The law requires that shipments between U.S. ports be carried on vessels flying the American flag. The temporary relaxation will allow foreign vessels to transport oil, coal, gasoline, and other products, including goods derived from oil, natural gas, and fertilizers.

Vance’s remarks echo the position of Donald Trump and other administration officials, who believe that energy prices will fall once the U.S. operation in Iran concludes. “I think as soon as this is over, gasoline prices will start dropping rapidly along with everything else,” Trump said on Friday. “You will see a very significant decline in gasoline, gas, and everything related to energy as soon as this is all finished.”