Mike Rogers proposes gas tax pause and diesel embargo

Republican U.S. Senate nominee Mike Rogers has proposed a suspension of both state and federal gas taxes to combat soaring fuel costs in Michigan. Rogers, who is backed by Donald Trump, also called for an immediate end to the war in Iran, citing its role in global energy disruptions. To provide immediate relief, Rogers suggested a temporary embargo on diesel exports to ensure American energy prioritizes domestic needs.

Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, a Republican ally of Rogers, expressed skepticism regarding the state-level tax pause. Hall noted that suspending the 52.4-cent gas tax could jeopardize a bipartisan agreement designed to fund local road repairs.

Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed criticized the proposal, attributing the price spikes to the ongoing conflict in Iran rather than taxation. As of late September 2026, Michigan’s average gas price of $4.75 per gallon remains significantly higher than the national average, driven by limited access to crucial shipping straits and attacks on Saudi Arabian energy infrastructure.