Why Gas Prices Are High When We Are Energy Independent

Donald Trump is actively addressing issues with Iran--at the same time--he is working to secure the energy necessary for a technological future, ensuring that the United States remains a free and sovereign nation;

Ray DiLorenzo , Bio and Archives--September 5, 2026

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It confuses many people. Myself included. I will attempt to simplify these complex concepts so that even I can grasp them.

Oil is a globally priced commodity. Pump prices in the U.S. follow world supply and demand without concern for how much we produce.

People often ask why the pump price goes up so quickly even when the gas at the station was bought at a lower price. The price at the pump does not reflect the price paid but the replacement cost. The same principle applies in reverse.

The United States is the leading oil producer globally, generating approximately 13.5 million barrels per day. In 2022, we averaged 11 million barrels a day. Our daily consumption for all uses is 20.6 million barrels per day, which includes gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, heating oil, liquified natural gas, and other refined products.

This results in a daily deficit of approximately 7 million barrels of crude that we must import. You might say, "Well, that is not energy independence." OK, when presidents like Joe Biden reduce oil production, restrict new drilling on federal lands, halt the Keystone XL pipeline, end subsidies, and commit the........

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