United States President Donald Trump has called for a ban on US diesel exports as record-high domestic fuel prices drag down his popular support.

With the US midterm elections looming, a proposed export ban appears to be a bid to reinvigorate Trump’s voter base.

As tensions escalate in the Middle East and global fuel reserves reach a critical low, Trump’s proposal could have major ramifications for the global economy and Australia – the largest per capita consumer of diesel among developed nations.

The White House has watered down the President’s statements, but Energy Secretary Chris Wright says the administration is considering restrictions.

Trump’s approval rating at record low

President Trump returned to office in January 2025 with pledges to tame inflation, cut fuel prices and end foreign wars. But with the US midterm elections just six weeks away, voters see Trump going backwards on all three of those promises.

US inflation is sitting at 3.4%, well above the Federal Reserve’s target rate of 2%. The Fed has increased interest rates for the first time in three years, intensifying cost pressures for households and small businesses.

Fuel prices have soared 50% since the start of........

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