Many states in the West are experiencing higher gas prices, with California experiencing the highest at $5.98 per gallon and Arizona experiencing a steep hike. Average gasoline prices rose in 39 states over the last week, with the national average moving higher, while diesel prices declined in most states. This increase is attributed to the ongoing war in Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping passage for 20% of the world's oil exports, which remains closed. California Gov. Gavin Newsom's office attributes the increase to the White House's failure to address the issue. With the midterms looming, politicians are addressing the issue of costly fuel rates.