Trump's 'Don't Give a Damn' Gas Price Remark Draws Criticism
President Donald Trump told a Georgia rally that the U.S. is making a fortune from high oil prices. He said he didn't "give a damn" if critics called it bragging.
- Trump said his advisers urged him not to mention the oil gains.
- He tied the gains to the conflict in the Middle East.
- Trump called oil prices temporarily high and predicted a sharp drop.
- $4.29 a gallon was the national average on Oct. 25, AAA said.
Why it matters: Drivers are paying about $1.23 more per gallon than a year ago, roughly 40% more. Prices have eased from about $4.49 in September.
- 73% of likely voters disapprove of Trump's handling of gas prices, a New York Times/Siena poll found.
- 42% of Republicans in that poll also disapprove.
How 3 sources split on this story
Where they split: The two sides frame the remark differently: Newsweek centers it on gas price data, while Raw Story treats it as a political opening for Democrats.
Left coverage, 1 sources: The left sees the remark as a candid admission that Trump puts oil industry profits ahead of struggling drivers, and as a ready-made campaign ad for Democrats.
What’s next: The midterm elections are days away, and Democrats are using the clip in their messaging.
- Newsweek asked the White House for comment by email on Sunday.
- Will gas prices fall as quickly as Trump predicts?
- How much of the oil revenue reaches households rather than producers?
