NAPLES, Fla. — Republican Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds says Floridians struggling with rising costs could see relief once tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz ease and global oil markets stabilize.
Speaking during an appearance on Newsmax, Donalds argued that elevated gasoline prices remain one of the primary drivers of inflation concerns and blamed Iran for disrupting global energy markets.
“The only slight uptick we’ve seen in inflation is because of gasoline prices,” Donalds said. “Oil prices are elevated because the Iranians are weaponizing the Strait of Hormuz against everybody’s economy.”
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, serving as a major transit point for global oil supplies. Disruptions in the region can affect fuel prices worldwide, including in the United States.
Donalds Connects Energy Prices to Consumer Costs
Donalds argued that lower energy prices could help reduce broader cost-of-living pressures affecting Florida families.
He predicted that once tensions in the region subside and shipping routes normalize, oil prices would decline, leading to lower gasoline prices and improved economic sentiment.
The Naples Republican also suggested that improving economic conditions could boost public confidence in President Donald Trump’s economic agenda ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Debate Continues Over Inflation Drivers
Economists generally point to multiple factors affecting inflation, including energy costs, interest rates, consumer demand, housing expenses, and global supply chain conditions.
While gasoline prices often influence public perceptions of the economy, other household expenses such as housing, insurance, groceries, and utilities continue to affect family budgets across Florida.
The state has experienced significant increases in property insurance premiums and housing costs in recent years, making affordability a major issue for voters.
Donalds Defends Trump’s Foreign Policy Approach
Donalds also criticized a recent House vote on a war powers resolution aimed at limiting presidential military authority regarding ongoing hostilities involving Iran.
Several Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the measure.
Donalds argued that congressional efforts to restrict executive flexibility could weaken the United States’ negotiating position during ongoing diplomatic discussions.
“It doesn’t improve the leverage of the United States in those negotiations,” Donalds said.
What’s Next
The future of oil prices and inflation will likely remain central issues in Florida’s 2026 gubernatorial race.
As voters continue to rank affordability among their top concerns, candidates from both parties are expected to focus heavily on energy costs, insurance rates, housing affordability, and economic growth throughout the campaign.
