Rep. Ro Khanna, D-California, joins “Mornings with Maria” to debate the escalating conflict between the U.S. and Iran, clash over oil exports and gas prices, and question President Donald Trump’s strategy as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz.
Rising tensions in the Middle East are seeping into debates over domestic energy policy, as lawmakers consider how global conflicts are putting Americans at the pump. As oil markets react to instability around the Strait of Hormuz, concerns about supply disruptions are now colliding with questions about whether U.S. energy policy serves domestic consumers first.
S&P Global Vice Chairman Daniel Yergin discusses tensions in Iran, oil market volatility, supply disruptions and global energy risks on ‘Mornings with Maria’.
When Bartiromo pointed to his legislation aimed at halting U.S. oil exports during the Iran conflict and pressed why he supported that move, Khanna framed the issue as a domestic supply priority.
“Maria, that’s common sense. Why would we send our oil abroad when the Americans are being bullied at the pump… We need to have our oil supply for the Americans… That would bring down the price,” Khanna said.
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The debate comes as oil flows through one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes face disruptions, increasing price volatility and renewing controls on U.S. export policies that were first relaxed nearly a decade ago. Critics argue that exports strengthen global energy influence, while others say they decouple domestic production from consumer assistance.
U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) delivers a speech in Washington, DC (Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Bartiromo pushed back, noting that the U.S. is producing oil at high levels and wondering whether limiting exports would address the broader energy picture.
“This was a giveaway in 2015 for the big oil companies… It was good for them… Not good for the average consumer,” Khanna added.
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The exchange reflects a broader division over energy policy as disruptions to global supply put pressure on prices while policymakers debate whether exports boost U.S. influence abroad or limit relief at home.
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Bartiromo also pressed Khanna on the broader strategy toward Iran, questioning how diplomacy would stop the country from developing a nuclear weapon and whether Tehran could be trusted.
“The American people are fed up. They want people who will be Team America. They want to bring down gas prices here and care about our nation and get us out of these wars,” he said.
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