Vasquez demands answers from Trump administration over rising gas prices tied to Iran war
U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez is demanding answers from the Trump administration as New Mexico records the nation’s steepest gas price increase, which he links to the war with Iran.
Congressman says New Mexicans have seen the nation’s steepest increase at the pump in the past month
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez said Wednesday that he is demanding answers from the Trump administration as New Mexicans face sharp increases in gas prices tied to the war with Iran.
Vasquez, a Democrat who represents New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, sent a letter March 25 to President Donald Trump seeking details on the administration’s strategy to address rising energy costs.
In a statement, Vasquez said families in southern New Mexico, along with ranchers and small businesses, are feeling the strain of higher prices at the pump.
“Families in my district are paying more at the pump than almost anywhere else in the country — over a dollar more per gallon in just one month,” Vasquez said. “Ranchers are seeing their operating costs climb, small businesses are getting squeezed, and hardworking New Mexicans are being forced to stretch every dollar just to keep up. This conflict is hitting people’s wallets, and they deserve to know what the plan is to bring costs down.”
According to the release, Vasquez said global instability and disruptions to key energy shipping routes have pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel, raising concerns about inflation and longer-term economic impacts.
He also said uncertainty in global markets is creating challenges for New Mexicans even as the Permian Basin remains a major source of U.S. energy production.
Vasquez called on the administration to explain what immediate steps it plans to take to lower energy costs, prevent prolonged price spikes and protect families from further financial strain. He also asked for more clarity about coordination with domestic energy producers and the administration’s assessment of long-term effects on consumer prices.
“From the Permian to the pump, New Mexicans understand energy — but right now, they’re feeling the pain of rising costs,” Vasquez said. “The federal government must act with urgency to stabilize prices and protect the economic security of American families.”
Vasquez requested a response by April 25. His office said AAA data shows New Mexico has recorded the nation’s largest increase in gas prices since the start of the Iran war, rising $1.18 per gallon.
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