Texas voters gathered in Lubbock and Corpus Christi this week to hear President Donald Trump address the sharp rise in gasoline costs ahead of the midterm elections. Despite the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline climbing to about $4.25 – roughly a 40% increase from a year ago, according to AAA – rally attendees said the price surge does not weaken their loyalty to the president.
Local supporters remain steadfast
“I do experience that costs are high, but I’m in for the long haul and I support everything that he’s been doing,” said one Lubbock attendee, speaking to Fox News Digital at the rally. Similar sentiments echoed in Corpus Christi, where residents expressed concern over the country’s direction but affirmed their backing of Trump’s agenda.
Stephen Elsher of Corpus Christi told reporters, “I’d like to see it turn around and do better for this next year. Without the Republicans in charge, we won’t go that direction.” The rally crowd echoed his call for Republican leadership to address the economic squeeze.
Trump points to energy policy as solution
President Trump addressed the gas price issue directly, highlighting increased American oil production and a newly announced energy agreement with Venezuela. “Our country is making a fortune while people have to pay more at the pump,” Trump said, adding that prices are “going to come down really fast.” He emphasized that the agreement would deliver the first million barrels of Venezuelan oil at no cost to American taxpayers, with the crude to be refined in Texas.
The White House has framed the deal as a major step toward expanding U.S. energy supply, noting that the broader agreement would give the United States majority control over roughly 65 billion barrels of proven Venezuelan reserves. Administration officials argue that this added supply will eventually lower consumer costs and protect domestic jobs in the oil and gas sector.
Supporters warn of a broader threat
Beyond the immediate concern over gasoline prices, several rally participants warned that the rise of socialism poses a danger to the nation’s future. “We can’t lose our republic,” said Susie, a Corpus Christi supporter, adding that Democrats, socialists and communists are threatening the country.
Elizabeth Trigo, who attended the Lubbock rally with her daughters, linked the midterms to preserving opportunity for the next generation. “The most important thing is opportunity again. Trump is on the side of opportunity,” she said, noting his stance on the war on drugs and opposition to socialist policies.
Administration’s response highlighted early
In response to the concerns raised, the Trump administration reiterated that the Venezuelan oil agreement will expand American energy independence and create jobs, while also stressing that the president’s economic agenda aims to keep taxes low and protect Texas oil and gas employment.
Trump also warned voters against what he described as a “radical left Democrat communist” agenda, arguing that Democratic policies would raise taxes, threaten Texas energy jobs, and weaken border security. “The choice in this election is very simple,” he told the crowd, contrasting his economic plan with the perceived consequences of Democratic control.
Looking ahead to the midterms
As the midterm elections approach, Texas remains a critical battleground for the Trump administration’s energy and economic messaging. While gas prices continue to climb, the president and his supporters are confident that the Venezuelan oil deal and broader energy strategy will soon bring relief to consumers and reinforce the state’s role as a cornerstone of America’s energy future.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
