Pritzker and Trump Both Criticize Oil Companies Over Gas Prices and Profits

In early August 2026, two separate U.S. political figures publicly criticized oil companies over gas prices and profits. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker sent a letter to CEOs of major oil companies, including Exxon Mobil, questioning why prices remained high for Illinois drivers despite record industry profits during the ongoing conflict with Iran. Separately, President Trump stated publicly that U.S. oil companies had made "too much money" from elevated oil prices, saying he was "not happy about it." Pritzker's letter, dated around August 5, 2026, requested detailed responses from oil executives by August 21, 2026, regarding pricing practices and profit levels amid rising gasoline demand. Trump's remarks, reported by CBS News on August 3, 2026, did not include specific policy proposals or demands directed at individual companies. Both officials linked their criticism to concerns about the financial burden on consumers, though they addressed the issue through different channels—Pritzker through formal state correspondence and Trump through public comment. As of the available reporting, it is unresolved whether oil companies have responded to either official, and no specific policy action or investigation has been confirmed as a result of either statement. It remains unclear whether Pritzker's and Trump's actions were coordinated or independent responses to the same broader market conditions. The full text of any company responses to Pritzker's letter, as well as further details on Trump's stated position, have not been reported.