More Americans fretting about surging gas prices: Poll

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The number of Americans worried about surging energy prices has risen to the highest level in a decade, according to a poll released Wednesday.

In all, 47% of respondents in Gallup's poll said they worry a great deal about energy costs and availability, up from 37% who said so in 2021. Roughly 44% said the energy situation is very serious, up from 32% the previous year.

The levels of concern over energy prices reflected in Gallup's poll have not been seen since 2012 when 48% said they were concerned about the availability and affordability of energy. This year's poll was taken from March 1-18 when Americans were experiencing record prices at the gas pump.

Russia's war on Ukraine, and the US' subsequent decision to ban Russian oil imports, exacerbated gas prices that many Americans had already thought were high.

Still, Americans have held relatively steady in their view of a potential looming critical energy shortage. This year, 55% said one would occur in the near-term, compared to 53% who said so in 2021.

When asked about whether energy production or environmental protection should be prioritized, the American electorate is about evenly split with 50% saying the environment should be prioritized compared to 46% who favor production.