The situation at US gas stations is causing serious concern among the population, forcing Americans to reconsider their consumer habits. High fuel prices, which are reaching record levels, are forcing many to abandon their usual spending on food outside the home, clothing and recreation, switching to austerity mode.

On the eve of the Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of the summer season, the cost of a gallon of gasoline exceeded the $4.5 mark for the first time in almost four years. This was a significant blow to consumers' budgets. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average retail price across the country has approached an all-time high, with a gap of less than 50 cents. Record-high prices are particularly evident in California, where gasoline is already priced above $6 per gallon.

 Despite the Trump administration's efforts to stabilize prices, including the use of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the suspension of the Jones Act, and discussions about "tax breaks" on federal gasoline taxes, these measures have not yet yielded the desired results. Experts attribute this situation to protracted geopolitical tensions, including the situation in Iran, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

 Fuel-related financial constraints:

 For the vast majority of Americans, owning a car is not a luxury, but a necessity. It is essential for commuting to work, school, and picking up children. In areas where public transportation is limited, owning a car becomes the primary means of transportation. "In most regions of America, owning a car is a fundamental need... "Without a car, it's impossible to survive in many places," says Heather Long, chief economist at the Navy Federal Credit Union. This means that Americans are forced to accept the rising cost of fuel as a given, which inevitably affects other expenses.

The impact on the economy:

The financial pressure caused by high gasoline prices is starting to be felt throughout the economy. Consumers who are forced to spend significant amounts on fuel are reducing their spending on non-essential goods and services. This could lead to a slowdown in growth in the retail, service, and entertainment industries.

The outlook is not promising:

Analysts do not expect fuel prices to drop anytime soon. Oil continues to trade at a high level, around $100 per barrel, and geopolitical tensions remain. Economist Jeff Curry of the Carlyle Group warns of a potential energy crisis that could fully unfold by July.

In this situation, Americans can only adapt to the new realities, review their budgets, and find ways to reduce their expenses. High gasoline prices are becoming an undeniable factor that shapes consumer behavior and has a significant impact on the country's economy.