Explainer

How Much Will Drivers Save If Trump Pauses the Federal Gas Tax?

A driver refuels a vehicle with regular gasoline at a gas station in Columbus, Ohio.Photographer: Brian Kaiser/Bloomberg

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By Ari Natter

May 14, 2026 at 6:14 PM UTC

Updated on

May 14, 2026 at 7:49 PM UTC

President Donald Trump is calling for a suspension of the federal tax on gasoline as fuel prices soar because of the war with Iran.

But Trump’s call on May 11 to pause the 18.4 cent a gallon tax “until it’s appropriate” is no sure thing. It would require approval from a Congress beset by gridlock. And if it becomes law, the savings from it would be relatively negligible.