The Trump administration announced Wednesday that it will release up to a third of the Northeast’s home heating oil reserve in an effort to lower the cost of fuel as winter approaches — and as Maine’s bitter Senate race hangs in the balance.
The announcement comes as Republican Sen. Susan Collins is making the case to Maine voters, in the midst of a tight re-election race, that her years of experience in Congress show she can advocate for them. Democratic challenger Troy Jackson said she should have done more to end the war between the United States and Iran that led to the price surge.
The race is one of a handful across the country that could determine whether Republicans or Democrats control the Senate next year. About 3% of American households rely on heating oil, mainly concentrated in the Northeast, particularly in Maine, where Colin and independent senator. King Angus have both I pushed for an exit of the reserve.
The average cost of a gallon of heating oil in the United States is $6.14, according to the most recent data from the Energy Information Administration. That’s more than double the price a year ago, which was $2.60. In New England, the average price is $6.08.
“I have repeatedly urged the administration to use every tool to increase supply and lower energy prices. » Colin » the Senate Appropriations Committee, which she chairs, said in a statement. “The Department anticipates that this release will put downward pressure on home heating oil costs and make a real difference for Maine homeowners as they prepare for winter.”
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