Republican Infighting Blocks Plan to Lower Gas Prices Before Midterm Elections

What happened

Senate Republicans have been unable to agree on a plan to lower gas and diesel prices before the midterm elections. The disagreement is due to differing opinions on which proposals would be effective. Some Republicans from oil-refining states opposed proposals to halt diesel exports and loosen limits on E15, a gasoline blend with more ethanol. Meanwhile, budget hawks opposed suspending the federal gas tax.

According to data from the American Automobile Association, diesel prices averaged $6.28 a gallon nationwide, up from $3.68 a year ago, and regular gasoline averaged $4.36, up from $3.12. Republican senators have expressed concern that high gas and diesel prices could impact GOP-leaning Senate races in Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa.

Various proposals have been put forward, including a 90-day halt to diesel exports, suspending the federal gas tax, and expanding E15 sales. However, these proposals have been met with opposition from different groups, with some arguing that they would not be effective in lowering prices or could even lead to higher prices.

Some lawmakers have introduced bills to suspend the federal taxes on gasoline and diesel, but these have been met with resistance from budget hawks who warn that it would drain the Highway Trust Fund. The issue remains unresolved, with no clear plan in place to address high gas and diesel prices before the midterm elections.