Pritzker and Trump Take Aim at Big Oil Amid Gas Price Hike

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has written to the CEOs of seven major oil companies, accusing them of profiteering from the war in Iran and urging them to return their excess profits to Illinois consumers. In his letter, Pritzker claims that oil companies are collecting 'windfall profits' from the hardworking families and businesses in Illinois due to supply disruptions caused by the war.

The average gas price in Illinois has risen by about a third since the Iran War began in February, according to AAA figures. However, experts argue that the prices at the pump reflect complex factors, including market price of oil, seasonal demand, and competition between stations.

Notably, both Pritzker and President Donald Trump have jumped on the bandwagon, criticizing oil companies for making 'too much money'. However, critics point out that this is a case of politicians seeking to shift blame rather than addressing the root causes of rising gas prices.

The state of Illinois adds 65.3 cents per gallon in taxes while the federal government takes 18.4 cents, but Pritzker and Trump fail to mention this in their criticism of oil companies.