Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Apr 25: A majority of Americans hold US President Donald Trump responsible for rising gasoline prices, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, posing a potential challenge for the Republican Party ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
The survey found that 77 per cent of registered voters believe Trump bears at least some responsibility for the surge in fuel prices, which followed the conflict involving Iran launched by the US and its ally Israel.
The sentiment cuts across party lines, with 55 per cent of Republican voters, 82 per cent of independents and 95 per cent of Democrats attributing the rise in costs to the president.
According to the poll, 58 per cent of respondents said they would be less likely to support candidates backing Trump’s approach to the Iran conflict in the November 3 congressional midterm elections.
The conflict has disrupted global oil supplies, pushing US gasoline prices to around $4 per gallon, significantly higher than pre-war levels.
Economic concerns appear to be weighing on voters, with 77 per cent identifying fuel prices as a major issue and 82 per cent expressing concern about inflation. About 70 per cent disagreed with claims that the US economy is currently booming.
Analysts say the rising cost of living could impact the electoral prospects of the Republican Party, which currently faces a tough contest to retain its majority in the US House of Representatives and control of the Senate.
The Reuters/Ipsos poll, conducted between April 15 and 20, surveyed 4,557 US adults, including 3,577 registered voters, with a margin of error of 2 percentage points.
Further political developments are expected as the elections approach.