Diesel pump prices across the United States climbed to an unprecedented level on Sept. 20, marking the highest national average in history. The cost reached $6.50 per gallon, while 10% of stations nationwide charge over $7 per gallon. The median diesel price is $6.39 per gallon, and retail gasoline averaged $4.48, which is 54 cents below its June 2022 record of $5.01.

An unplanned power outage forced the shutdown of ExxonMobil's refinery in Joliet, Illinois, removing roughly 6% of Midwest refining capacity. Senator Chuck Grassley called for a diesel export embargo after Iowa pump prices reached $6.57 per gallon. While Senator Bernie Sanders cited $125 billion in 2026 oil profits as a driver for Congress to act, GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan said the U.S. is not experiencing widespread diesel shortages.