President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing a 90‑day ban on diesel exports to curb soaring fuel prices, despite opposition from Energy Secretary Chris Wright and industry insiders. The restriction would be the first limit on U.S. energy exports in more than a decade and could be announced in the coming days, according to Politico. The administration hopes that redirecting diesel bound for Asia or Europe back into the United States will provide relief at the pump ahead of the midterm elections, though the White House has dismissed the story as fake news.
Global energy prices have risen sharply amid the ongoing Iranian conflict, largely because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade route. AAA data show that the average national price for a gallon of diesel on Wednesday was $6.52, up from $3.69 a year earlier.
Both Chris Wright and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent have expressed concerns about a 90‑day ban. Wright warned that the United States is the world’s largest diesel exporter and that restricting exports could force refineries to cut production, potentially raising gasoline and jet‑fuel prices. Several oil‑industry CEOs called the proposal a terrible idea after learning of the plan.
The proposal faces additional worries that the ban could be extended or set a precedent for future government intervention in the private sector. Despite widespread opposition, political pressure ahead of the midterms may push the policy into effect. A September Fox News poll found that 61% of voters view pump prices as a significant concern, prompting GOP lawmakers to call for action. A White House spokesperson said Politico’s coverage was fake news, noting that Wright addressed the issue publicly at the United Nations General Assembly, where he clarified that the administration would not fully ban diesel exports but would implement restrictions.
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