Washington, DC - In recent months, American voters have become increasingly worried about rising gas prices. As of September 20, 2026, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline hit approximately $4.48, according to AAA data.

This marks an increase of more than a dollar compared to the same time last year. For many families, especially those in the working and middle class, these higher prices are stretching household budgets. People are being forced to juggle fuel expenses along with groceries, medical bills, and other daily necessities.

Gas prices stand out because they are a cost people encounter regularly. Every time drivers fill their tanks, they are reminded of the rising prices.

A recent Fox News poll from September 16 revealed that 61% of voters see gas prices as a significant problem for their households, up from 48% just two years ago. The same poll found that many Americans are also concerned about the rising costs of food, housing, and healthcare.

This surge in fuel prices is driven by a mix of factors, including high crude oil prices—which hovered around $100 per barrel in mid-September—and continuing global tensions, particularly those affecting oil supplies in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz.

With the November midterm elections approaching, the issue of gas prices has become a key topic in political debates. Reporting by The Associated Press indicates that frustration over fuel costs crosses party lines, with voters from both sides expressing worry about how these expenses impact their finances.

The Fox News poll also showed that more than three times as many Americans feel they are falling behind financially compared to those who feel they are getting ahead.

Ultimately, for many households, the core concern is straightforward: how much will it cost to fill up the tank, and what impact will that have on their ability to afford other essentials? As economic pressures mount, the price at the pump may play a significant role in shaping opinions at the ballot box this fall.

Source : Associated Press