Energy Secretary Predicts US Gas Prices Will Fall Despite Record Labor Day Costs

U.S. gasoline inventories fell by about 1.2 million barrels in the latest week, reaching 205.7 million barrels, according to the Energy Information Administration.
The projected Labor Day average of $4.03 per gallon would exceed the previous record for the holiday period—$3.83 per gallon, set in 2012.
Wright said the administration is not currently prioritizing restrictions on U.S. oil exports, arguing instead for increased production: “The way to solve a supply shortage is to grow supply.”
Wright said the administration was “leaning in on maximum production — energy addition” while considering options to bring prices down for American consumers.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright predicted U.S. gas prices will fall in coming weeks, citing less driving demand after Labor Day and new refinery rules boosting production. Benzinga reported that Wright said prices are "more likely to go down than go up," despite an expected Labor Day average of $4.03 per gallon—higher than the 2012 record of $3.83 per gallon.
The outlook faces headwinds from global oil disruptions tied to Iran conflict and Venezuelan supply delays due to infrastructure limits. Meanwhile, U.S. gasoline inventories fell 1.2 million barrels to 205.7 million barrels last week, Energy Information Administration data showed. Wright argued the Trump administration should "grow supply" rather than restrict oil exports to tackle high prices.
Gasoline demand seasonally weakens after Labor Day as summer driving ends, Wright explained. CNN reported that falling futures prices, combined with regulatory changes letting refineries produce more fuel, should push prices lower. The administration is also pushing for maximum domestic energy production to increase supply—a strategy Wright said addresses shortages better than export limits.
The expected $4.03 per gallon average over Labor Day weekend would break the prior holiday record of $3.83 set in 2012. Shrinking inventories—down 1.2 million barrels to 205.7 million barrels—keep upward pressure on prices. Good Morning America quoted Wright saying "We're doing everything we can to push them down," signaling administration urgency on cost-of-living concerns.
Global oil supply disruptions from Iran tensions add pressure to U.S. prices, offsetting some benefits from higher domestic production. The Trump administration is exploring Venezuelan oil reserves, but ca.headtopics.com noted limited infrastructure could delay real impact. Wright dismissed export restrictions as a solution, preferring instead to expand U.S. production capacity to stabilize markets long-term.
Publishers
12
Articles
21
Reach
33