Interior Secretary Doug Burgum was widely mocked on social media after suggesting that Americans traveling for the Fourth of July weekend could save money by gassing up in Republican-majority states.
Burgum's advice and the backlash
In a Sunday interview on Fox News with host Trey Gowdy, Burgum said: “My last thing, on a piece of good news, I would tell people, if you’re concerned about the price of gas, of course it’s dropping again this week; President Trump, his energy policies helping lower the price of energy. But if you’re gonna gas up, here’s a tip: gas up in a red state.” He added that nationally, gas was 53 cents cheaper per gallon in red states compared to blue states over the weekend.
While Burgum’s claim about lower average prices in Republican-leaning states is broadly accurate, the practicality of his advice was immediately challenged. Critics pointed out that many drivers would have to use gas to travel to a red state, negating any savings. Others noted that gas prices have risen across all states due to global factors.
Social media reactions
Leslie Marshall tweeted: “So we drive to a red state with what? Gas???” Another user, C-Bo the Eggman, wrote: “Even ignoring how ridiculously impractical this advice is, the price of gas has increased in red states, too.” Robert Elisberg called it a “REALLY BAD TIP,” adding: “Just imagine all the gas you'd use driving to a Red state... Gas prices are up in *every* state. And in some Red states as much if not more than some Blue states.”
Other commenters accused Burgum of partisanship. ClaireVoyant posted: “@DougBurgum it’s cute how you don’t even bother to hide your blatant partisanship. By the way, I live in a red state and gas is still high. But keep bootlicking Trump — great look.” Allen noted: “I live in a red state... its no better here.” Pyramid45 remarked: “Just admitted the gas prices are targeted.” Norman Ornstein, a political analyst, wrote: “Doug Burgum is the worst Secretary of the Interior ever. Worse than James Watt. A catastrophe for decency and stability in America.”
Context on gas prices
The backlash also referenced the impact of President Donald Trump’s policies, including the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which sent global oil prices soaring. Despite Burgum’s claim that Trump’s energy policies are lowering prices, many users argued that any savings are overshadowed by broader market forces affecting all states.
