Washington, Europe Brief News – US price for a gallon of regular gas now stands at $4.17, according to AAA.
That breaks the previous record of $4.11 a gallon that has stood since July 2008.
US President Joe Biden blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for the high record prices.
As Russia continues its military offensive in Ukraine, gas prices are rising faster than they have since Hurricane Katrina slammed into oil platforms and refineries along the US Gulf Coast in 2005.
Biden acknowledged there is more pain to come. He told reporters his executive order banning imports of Russian energy signed Tuesday will heap more pain on gasoline prices ahead of spring break and summer vacation.
“They’re going to go up”. Biden said as he flew into America’s oil patch in Texas, where he was visiting veterans.
“Can’t do much right now. Russia is responsible. The President’s offhand remark is unlikely to soothe Democratic fears of a possible Republican rout in November’s midterm elections.
The war in Ukraine created yet another extreme challenge for Biden, who took office in the face of the worst public health crisis in 100 years and has seen his personal approval ratings plunge after failing to quickly conquer Covid-19 last year.
The gas price issue encapsulates a dilemma that can often afflict presidents at times of international crises. Biden is being compelled to take action in defense of critical global imperatives, the defense of international law, the plight of a people under vicious bombardment and a desire to deter a dangerous dictator.
But he knows that his actions will have a detrimental impact back home. In the current polarized national environment and with only eight months to go before congressional elections, the downside for the President will only be magnified.
