Swing voters weigh high gas prices ahead of midterm elections
10 reported1 unconfirmed
According to a single-source report from NPR, swing voters in several states are factoring high gas prices into their political views and daily lives. The report is based on voice memos from participants in NPR’s Swing Shift project, which regularly checks in with swing voters from swing states. These voters have voted for candidates from both parties in recent elections and are not using their full names to speak freely. The article notes that a gallon of regular unleaded is still well over a dollar more than it was this time last year. An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll cited in the article found that more than 60 percent of respondents blame President Trump for the current increase in gas prices, and 81 percent said current gas prices strain their household budgets. The article presents these voters’ personal experiences and opinions without independent verification of the claims.
What’s reported
Colleen in Pennsylvania paid $4.37 a gallon and said she does not feel political leaders show enough concern about high gas prices.
John in Philadelphia pays about $4.25 a gallon and said high gas prices lead to high grocery and other prices.
Lee in Nevada pays $5.50 a gallon and blames Democrats for higher prices in western states; he voted for Biden in 2020 and Trump in 2024.
Jason in North Carolina paid $3.67 a gallon in early May and recalled the 2022 Russia-Ukraine invasion as a prior price driver.
Michelle in Michigan paid $4.96 a gallon and said she felt frustrated and shocked.
Theresa near Pittsburgh paid $4.69 a gallon and said this will affect her vote in November.
Gerald in Georgia said diesel fuel is “kicking my butt” but trusts Trump has a plan.
Wally in Georgia stayed home for Memorial Day weekend to minimize spending due to gas prices.
The NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found more than 60 percent of respondents blame President Trump for the current gas price increase.
The same poll found 81 percent of respondents said current gas prices strain their household budgets.
Open questions
The article does not specify the exact sample size or methodology of the NPR/PBS News/Marist poll beyond the percentages cited.
Key figures
Colleen (swing voter, Pennsylvania, voted for Harris in 2024 and Trump in 2020)
John (swing voter, Philadelphia, tends to vote Republican, supported Trump in 2024)
Lee (swing voter, Nevada, voted for Biden in 2020 and Trump in 2024)
Jason (swing voter, North Carolina)
Michelle (swing voter, Michigan, swung to Trump in 2024)
Theresa (swing voter, outside Pittsburgh, voted for Trump in 2024)
Gerald (swing voter, Georgia, voted for Trump in 2024 after lifetime of backing Democrats)
Wally (swing voter, Georgia, Biden to Trump voter)
Sources: NPR
