March 23rd, 2026 Local News
Washington, D.C. (KFMO) - Gas prices across the United States are nearing the four-dollar mark as the conflict involving Iran continues to weigh on both energy markets and consumer confidence.
According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.956 on March 23, 2026. In Missouri, the statewide average was $3.431 a gallon. AAA has also reported a sharp climb in prices during March, driven in part by higher crude oil prices and seasonal demand.
CBS News reports a new poll shows the war in Iran and rising gas prices are fueling economic concerns for Americans. The survey found most respondents believe it is important to stop Iran’s nuclear program, ensure the Iranian people are safe and free, and that it would be unacceptable to leave Iran’s regime in power. However, most Americans also say they want the conflict to end as quickly as possible.
The poll also found overwhelming concern about the impact at home. According to CBS News, nine in ten Americans believe the war is causing gas prices to rise in the short term. Separate CBS reporting said the national average was about $3.91 late last week, up from $3.63 on March 13, showing how quickly prices have moved higher as the conflict intensified.
CBS has also reported that higher fuel costs tied to the war could put more pressure on household budgets, as rising prices at the pump offset financial gains many families may have expected elsewhere.
The latest numbers suggest Americans are supporting some of the war’s stated goals overseas, while also feeling growing concern about how the conflict is affecting daily life and the cost of living here at home.