BUSINESS

Drivers Line Up as Gas Prices Surge Nationwide

PUBLISHED May 8, 2026, 1:05 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 5

Center 80%

Right 20%

Sources: 5

St. Louis — Circle K offered a temporary 40-cent-per-gallon discount at its stations on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., drawing drivers who filled up as local pump prices briefly fell below four dollars and customers reported relief; AAA reported the national average at about $4.56 per gallon the same day. Billings, Mobile, Savannah and other markets reported higher regional averages this week: Montana reached about $4.47 on Thursday, some Mobile stations posted $4.59, and Georgia averaged roughly $4.00; drivers and ride-share workers described increased financial strain while retailers reported higher traffic during promotional hours and analysts pointed to supply and geopolitical pressures.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

End of February: national average near $2.98 per gallon.
Approximately one month prior to Thursday: Montana statewide average about $3.80 per gallon.
One week prior to Thursday: Montana's average rose roughly 40 cents week-over-week.
Thursday: Circle K ran a 40¢-per-gallon promotion from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; AAA reported a national average around $4.56.
This week: local reports showed peaks (Mobile up to $4.59, Montana $4.47, Georgia about $4.00); drivers reported increased financial strain.

News Intelligence

Your wallet is feeling the pinch. Gas prices are surging nationwide, affecting everyone from drivers to ride-share workers. If you're in a region with higher averages, like Montana or Mobile, you're likely feeling it more. Check local promotions, like Circle K's recent discount, to save some cents.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Circle K benefited from increased foot traffic and short-term sales by offering a temporary 40-cent-per-gallon discount that attracted drivers seeking immediate relief.

Who Impacted

Drivers, particularly commuters and ride-share workers, suffered from higher fuel costs that reduced disposable income and increased transportation expenses.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 80%, Right 20%

Who Benefited

Circle K benefited from increased foot traffic and short-term sales by offering a temporary 40-cent-per-gallon discount that attracted drivers seeking immediate relief.

Who Impacted

Drivers, particularly commuters and ride-share workers, suffered from higher fuel costs that reduced disposable income and increased transportation expenses.