Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.) became visibly frustrated during a debate in Maryland, responding to audience laughter by calling attendees "rude." The lawmaker was attempting to explain the rise in diesel prices, attributing it to Democratic environmental regulations.
"The facts are that diesel prices have gone up, there’s no question about it," Harris stated during the event in Maryland's 1st Congressional District. "Why has it gone up? Because the Democrats have environment regulations, have not—"
His remarks were interrupted by laughter from the crowd. Harris, who has represented the district since 2011, then addressed the audience, saying, "Ma’am, I gotta tell ya, this is the problem. You all say you believe there’s a First Amendment, but only if we agree with you! You should let me finish the sentence, ma’am. You are rude!"
The national average price for a gallon of diesel is currently $6.29, according to AAA, a significant increase from $3.65 a year ago. The average price for regular gasoline is $4.33, up from $3.07 last year. Diesel prices reached a record high average of $6.52 last month.
The debate, hosted by the League of Women Voters in Cambridge, Maryland, saw Harris's challenger, Dan Schwartz, attempt to maintain a civil tone. However, Harris's explanation for high fuel costs was cut short by the audience's reaction.
Factors contributing to high fuel costs are complex. A recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration cited "tight" fuel supplies resulting from "reduced global refining activity." International events, including Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian refineries and Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries, have further impacted supply.
Fuel costs are anticipated to be a significant issue for voters in the upcoming midterm elections.