The White House said it would continue looking at ways to lower gas costs, as average prices hit their highest level in more than seven years.
The surge in fuel prices comes despite months of efforts by the Biden administration to boost gasoline supply and spur competition in the market and threatens to pose a political challenge to Democrats in an election year. The United States also seeks to bolster gas supplies to European allies amid a brewing conflict with Russia, a major supplier.
BIDEN CELEBRATES JANUARY JOBS REPORT: ‘WE’VE COME BACK STRONGER’
Joe Biden’s press secretary said Friday that the president had taken steps to address gas prices, including tapping the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and urging OPEC member countries and suppliers to meet demand, but said the administration is looking at more options.
“We’ll continue to look at options,” Jen Psaki said.
Asked whether Biden might open up domestic production, she suggested drilling companies could do more to maximize supply.
“I’d point you to the oil companies on what available places they have and if they’re maximizing that. My understanding is they’re not,” she said.
Biden has faced pressure from members of his party to act, with some Democrats calling for a ban on crude oil exports in an attempt to lower prices. Lawmakers from both parties instead urged the president to open up domestic production, arguing that an export ban would shoot prices higher globally.
European energy prices have also surged, a concern for allies in the region as fears grow that Russia could attack Ukraine, which would prompt a slate of punishing financial sanctions on Moscow that could restrict European access to Russian gas.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Officials said last week that the U.S. was already engaged in discussions over alternative energy supplies to ensure Europe, which is heavily reliant on gas from Russia, could make it through the winter and spring.
“That is something we’ve been very mindful of,” Psaki said Friday.
