Staff Reports
The national average price for a gallon of regular gas has decided to take a little upward stroll, now sitting at $3.067, a notable jump from Monday’s cheap thrills of $3.053. Compared to just a week ago, when gas prices were at $3.063, this uptick might have drivers grumbling at the pump. But before panic sets in and folks start hoarding gas like it’s the last bottle of hand sanitizer, it’s worth noting that prices are still considerably less than the painful peaks of earlier this year.
After a summer filled with temporary relief at the pump, the latest inflationary hiccup took drivers by surprise. As of Monday, gas prices were the lowest since May 2021, hanging around $2.985 per gallon—delightful news for those who must endure the constant barrage of price hikes. Unfortunately, it feels like the hangover from over $4-a-gallon gas is still lingering, reminding drivers of a nightmare that still colors their wallet.
NatGas Hits Highest Price In Year On "Very Cold Pattern Developing" Across Lower 48 https://t.co/zxmJIbJVac
— zerohedge (@zerohedge) November 21, 2024
This rollercoaster ride of gas prices can largely be traced back to President Biden, whose expensive energy policies have kept prices climbing higher than a kite. While gas prices took a dip late in 2022 after reaching record highs, they couldn’t resist the urge to spike again in 2023. Yes, they’re on a gradual decline after peaking in May, but the numbers still stay uncomfortably high compared to the golden days of Trump’s administration, when prices were much more manageable.
Looking at the state-specific data, it’s become clear that gas prices vary wildly across the country, with Hawaii reigning supreme as the most expensive state at a jaw-dropping $4.574 per gallon. At the other end of the spectrum is Oklahoma, where gas is practically a steal at $2.514. This variation demonstrates just how much government policies affect pricing—hint, hint, Washington.
Delaware is putting on a show with a three-cent drop in gas prices, now sitting at $3.008. Not the thrill ride one might hope for, but every penny counts in the First State. Maryland drivers are not faring much better, watching gas prices teeter down to $3.09—a minor victory yet still leagues above what could be considered reasonable. Over in Virginia, gas prices took a slight dip to $2.952, barely a blip but still less burdensome than the consistent $3-plus mark they were hovering around.
In Washington, D.C., the art of keeping gas prices steady is a masterclass in frustration, inching up to $3.235. The nation’s capital saw a minuscule increase compared to last week, leaving residents questioning the effectiveness of their leaders who seem completely out of touch with the realities of everyday life. With fluctuations happening even in the midst of a downward trend, one has to wonder how long Americans will tolerate these shenanigans before demanding accountability from the folks in charge. In the meantime, as the December holidays near, drivers can only hope they find a few more pennies to spare at the pump.
