Gov Moore says Trump lacks ‘full articulation’ on gas prices, questions cost-cut claims

WASHINGTON, DC: Maryland Governor Wes Moore on Sunday, April 5, raised concerns about rising gas prices and broader economic pressures, questioning the federal government’s approach to addressing them.

Speaking with CBS News, amid ongoing global conflict and its impact on energy markets, Moore said states have limited ability to control fuel costs.

He also disputed claims that prices would ease in the near term. His remarks come as households continue to face higher costs for energy, housing, and everyday expenses.

Moore questions gas strategy amid conflict

Moore said that while governors are responsible for managing state-level responses, they do not have direct control over key drivers of energy costs.

He noted that households are already feeling the impact, citing a sharp increase in utility bills over the past year.

“Governors don't have full control over that,” Moore said, adding that state leaders “can't control the fact that gas prices have gone up now over $1 because we decided to enter into another war of choice.”

He also pointed to rising housing costs, saying affordability challenges are compounding financial strain on residents.

Addressing the POTUS's claim that gas prices could ease in the near term, Moore said he differs with that outlook. “No, I disagree, because I think the president still does not have a full articulation as to why gas prices are going up in the first place, or what's going to be necessary or required to be able to bring them down.”

Moore linked the issue to broader policy decisions, arguing that foreign conflicts can have direct economic consequences at home.

He added that the most effective way to address rising fuel costs would be to avoid prolonged military engagements, stating, “the best thing that we could do to be able to address gas prices is by stop fighting foreign wars.”

State-level measures focus on relief as Moore calls for policy clarity

While emphasizing limits on state authority over global energy markets, Moore outlined steps his administration has taken to mitigate the impact on residents.

He said Maryland has focused on consumer protection and targeted economic relief.

Moore said the state has implemented tax policies designed to support middle-income households.

“We've actually given the middle class in Maryland a tax cut,” he said, adding that the approach includes asking higher-income residents to contribute more toward public investments.

Moore also raised broader concerns about the direction of US policy, particularly in relation to foreign conflicts. He referenced past conflicts, noting their financial and human costs, and questioned whether the current strategy has been fully defined.  

Moore said there remains uncertainty about long-term goals, adding that “the president of the United States and the commander in chief has still yet to articulate what exactly it is that we're doing.”

He also expressed concern for military families amid ongoing operations, saying he is “praying for these families” while calling for clearer communication from the administration.