By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of The Chris Heasley Show.

What does a two‑star admiral say about diesel taxes while a veterans’ leader warns that Iranian forces are “holding in by a thread” as the midterms approach? The answers unfold in a lively discussion that ties energy policy, foreign conflict and the upcoming election together.

Energy Costs and the Trump Administration’s Response

Nick Tran, president of Veterans for America First Texas, highlighted the current strain on fuel markets, noting that refineries are struggling to meet demand and that diesel prices have climbed above $4 per gallon in Virginia. He argued that the high diesel tax is inflating food costs because truckers pass the expense onto consumers. “We need to break that oil cartel mindset and start selling our oil cheaper to the refineries,” Tran said, urging a federal tax waiver on diesel to lower prices for American families.

The discussion referenced the Trump administration’s push to revive small‑scale refineries, a trend that began with the first new refinery built in the United States in recent years. While the specifics of policy actions were not detailed, the guests framed these market‑based moves as a direct benefit of President Trump’s deregulation agenda.

Iran, the Abraham Accords and Veteran Perspectives

Rear Admiral Charles Kubic, a veteran of the Navy’s senior leadership and a member of Veterans for President Trump, recounted his experiences in Iran during the 1978‑79 upheaval. He described the chaotic scene on a flight to Frankfurt, where factions of the Shah’s court and Ayatollah supporters clashed, requiring German police intervention. Kubic used that memory to illustrate the deep‑rooted instability that still plagues the region.

Both guests stressed the importance of the Abraham Accords, calling them a historic achievement of President Trump that should be expanded into an “Abraham Alliance” to counter Iran’s influence. Kubic warned that the Iranian regime remains fragile, saying, “Iranian forces are just holding in by a thread, waiting for the midterms.” The implication is clear: a Democratic shift could embolden Tehran, making voter participation a strategic national security issue.

The Role of Veterans in Shaping Foreign Policy

The conversation underscored how veteran voices are mobilizing around foreign‑policy debates. Tran emphasized that veterans’ groups are actively communicating their views to Texas listeners, hoping to influence public opinion ahead of the 2026 midterms. Kubic added that veteran experience in past conflicts provides a unique lens for evaluating current diplomatic efforts.

By linking past peace negotiations to today’s challenges, the guests suggested that veteran insight can help steer the United States toward more pragmatic, security‑focused agreements, especially as the nation confronts the twin pressures of energy scarcity and geopolitical tension.

Implications for the 2026 Election

Both guests framed the upcoming midterms as a decisive moment. Tran warned that Democratic control of the House or Senate could reverse Trump‑era policies on energy and foreign affairs, potentially leading to higher fuel taxes and a softer stance on Iran. Kubic echoed this sentiment, urging listeners to vote to preserve the strategic direction set by the Trump administration.

The takeaway is a call to action: veterans and everyday Americans alike are being asked to consider how their vote will affect energy prices, national security and the United States’ role on the world stage.

In sum, the dialogue on The Chris Heasley Show illustrates a convergence of veteran advocacy, energy policy and geopolitical strategy, all tied to the crucial 2026 midterm elections. As President Trump’s administration continues to push for deregulation and strategic alliances, the voices of those who have served remind listeners that the stakes extend far beyond the ballot box.

The full episode of The Chris Heasley Show is available on OBBM Network TV.