Trump Asks U.S. Refiners to Boost Domestic Output to Curb Pump Prices

President Trump pressed major and independent refiners at a White House meeting to boost domestic gasoline and diesel output, citing regulatory changes, faster permitting, and more investment to lower pump prices amid ongoing supply disruptions from the Iran conflict. The discussion centered on the Renewable Fuel Standard and biofuel blending quotas, with some refiners arguing the mandates raise costs; aides noted potential tweaks such as waivers for small refiners and ensuring waived volumes get blended elsewhere. Attendees also discussed increasing Venezuelan crude flows and other policy moves, underscoring the political pressure to ease high fuel costs ahead of the midterms.