Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) urged President Donald Trump to restrict US diesel exports, arguing that high fuel costs are pressuring American farmers and truckers. The Iowa senator called for an embargo similar to those imposed in the 1970s.

Grassley Calls For Diesel Export Embargo

Grassley renewed his call on September 20, 2026, posting on X that the government should embargo diesel to help domestic users. He compared the proposal to past embargoes on agricultural products during periods of inflated food prices.

According to AAA data cited by Grassley, the national average price of regular gasoline was $4.4761 per gallon on Sunday. Diesel averaged $6.5050 per gallon. In Iowa specifically, Grassley noted diesel prices reached $6.57 per gallon.

Grassley argued that keeping more fuel in the US could ease domestic prices. He stated, "High diesel prices ARE KILLING FARMERS INCOME." He also drew a parallel to semiconductor export restrictions, writing, "If our govt can embargo chips to China it can embargo diesel to help American farmers & truckers."

Political Reaction To Rising Costs

Other politicians have criticized rising fuel costs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene reported diesel in Central Florida approaching $7 per gallon and regular gasoline at $4.79. She warned higher prices would crush the economy.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) cited national averages of $4.44 for gas, $6.40 for diesel, and $5.50 for heating oil. He called for an end to the war, stating families could not afford the higher costs.

Gov. JB Pritzker (D-Ill.) claimed the Iran war had added $107 billion to American gas and diesel expenses. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett acknowledged fuel prices were "higher than we would like" but noted steps had been taken to lower them once the Gulf situation resolved.

The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.