The trick to lowering gas prices is driving less, US energy secretary says

On September 6, 2026, as gasoline prices surged to a Labor Day record, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told viewers that the simplest way to bring pump costs down is for drivers to cut back on trips.

The remark arrived as Yahoo reported the record‑setting price levels and as public concern over fuel affordability peaked. Wright made the remarks during a Face the Nation interview, which CBS News posted in full, and Business Insider ran a story titled “The trick to lowering gas prices is driving less.” The Hill’s live updates recorded his downplay of the recent price surge, quoting him that gasoline is “more likely to go down than go up.” Axios noted his wavering tone, while Yahoo’s coverage framed the advice against the backdrop of the Labor Day price record.

He also warned that the United States and Iran are engaged in trade strikes, a development The Hill linked to broader oil‑market volatility. While reduced driving could modestly ease demand, the secretary’s advice does not directly tackle the geopolitical and supply factors that are driving the current price spikes.