Trump’s Jones Act waiver failed to deliver. It’s time to end it

Published July 6, 2026 6:04pm ET | Updated July 6, 2026 6:04pm ET



The Jones Act waiver exists for a reason. It gives a president flexibility during a national emergency and demonstrates that every available option is being considered. Every administration should have that authority.

History also shows that Jones Act waivers rarely solve the emergency they are intended to address. The waiver issued during the Strait of Hormuz crisis is no exception.

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