As “oil prices jump” once again, North Carolina families continue to hurt from high prices at the pump while DC insider and Big Oil Lobbyist Michael Whatley profits from his oil and gas stocks. Whatley has raked in up to $219,660 after cheering on the war and saying he “absolutely” supports it even after it spiked prices. 

This comes as Whatley has been caught “misleading” North Carolinians about the impact of high gas prices. Whatley has also insisted again and again that costs are down – even as inflation skyrockets and hurts North Carolina families. 

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WTVD: North Carolinians feel strain as costs continue to rise

Cindy Bae | June 1, 2026

• Many North Carolina residents say rising prices and higher interest rates are making it harder to keep up with everyday expenses.

• In Wake County, residents say the strain is increasingly visible at the gas pump and grocery store.

• “It’s bad, everything,” Harold Williams said. “Oil prices are getting jacked up, and it’s no relief.”

• Williams said the cost of essentials has become overwhelming for many families.

• “Gas prices jump up to prices where people can’t fill their tanks up $10 at a time,” he said. “Food prices are getting outrageous.”

• Economists say households are feeling the effects of higher energy prices following the Iran war. Researchers at Brown University report that the average household is now spending at least $200 on gas.

• Williams said he is searching for ways to cut back and hopes low-income families receive more support.

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