Gas prices across the United States have risen to a national average of $3.48 per gallon as of Monday, up from $2.90 a month ago before the start of military operations in Iran, according to AAA data. The price increase has created frustration among consumers regardless of political affiliation, with many expressing concern about the economic impact of the overseas conflict.

A recent Quinnipiac poll conducted over the weekend found that approximately half of registered voters oppose U.S. military action against Iran, while about 40% support it. The survey showed stark partisan divisions, with 89% of Democrats opposing the action and 85% of Republicans supporting it. Independents opposed the military involvement by a 60% margin. Three-quarters of all respondents expressed concern about the war's impact on gas and oil prices.

President Trump defended the military action during a Monday news conference, stating the conflict was necessary and predicting it would ultimately lead to lower energy prices for American families. "We're putting an end to all of this threat once and for all, and the result will be lower oil prices, oil and gas prices for American families," Trump said, describing the war as "just an excursion into something that had to be done."

The price increases are affecting consumers differently across the country. In Iowa, factory worker Francisco Castillo, who voted for Trump, expressed disappointment that campaign promises of lower gas prices had not materialized. In Pennsylvania, retiree Kathryn Price Engelhard said she reduced her gas station fill-ups and cut her home heating oil order by half due to rising costs. Some consumers in Michigan who drive electric vehicles reported feeling grateful for their decision to avoid gasoline-powered cars.

The administration previously eliminated federal tax credits of up to $7,500 for electric vehicle purchases as part of policies favoring gasoline-powered vehicles. Some consumers expressed concerns about potential price gouging, while others indicated the current prices, though higher, remain manageable compared to previous spikes that reached $5 per gallon in some areas.