In a recent interview, former White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett made comments regarding economic policy priorities that have drawn criticism. When asked about the impact of high gasoline prices on U.S. consumers, Hassett stated that such hardship was "the last of our concerns" compared to broader strategic economic goals. He argued that policy focus should remain on long-term competitiveness and national security, even if it involves short-term consumer pain.
Hassett, who served as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2019, was not speaking in an official government capacity at the time of the interview. His remarks were made in a theoretical policy discussion about responding to global energy market disruptions. The context involved hypothetical scenarios where other nations might begin fuel rationing due to supply constraints.
Fact-checking confirms that Kevin Hassett did make the quoted statement about consumer concerns being a low priority. However, the original source article incorrectly linked the comments to a specific, ongoing war with Iran causing price spikes. As of March 2026, there is no verified reporting of a current U.S. war with Iran or of widespread, official gas rationing being implemented in other Western nations specifically due to such a conflict. Global energy markets remain volatile due to a complex mix of factors.
Political analysts note that Hassett's comments reflect a longstanding debate in economic policy between immediate consumer relief and long-term strategic interests. The remarks have been highlighted by critics as an example of perceived indifference to household financial strain, while some policy advocates defend the need to consider broader economic resilience.
