Now is not a great time to plan a road trip.

According to AAA, the average regular gas price in Phoenix on March 12 had risen by 84 cents since President Donald Trump launched the country into conflict in the Middle East.

As of March 13, the average price in Phoenix was $4.38 a gallon. The state’s average price was $4.10. 

Arizona’s average price for regular gas was $4.10 as of March 13. (jittawit21/Shutterstock)

People in Phoenix interviewed by The Arizona Republic blamed the Iran war for the prices rising. 

⛽️ “The jump in price is definitely outrageous right now, and it all has to do with Trump going to war. We are the ones actually paying for it.” — Ben Saiz, 34

⛽️ “The jump in price has to do with the war in the Middle East.” — Victoria Smith, 42

⛽️ “It’s the same thing where we went to Iraq. All the gas prices went up.” — Emilio Beltran, 32

How have you been feeling about rising gas prices? Or the war overall? Let me know, and I’ll include some responses tomorrow. 

The average regular gas price in Phoenix proper on March 12 was 84 cents more than the day before the conflict in the Middle East broke out Feb. 27, according to figures listed by AAA.

If you’re looking to celebrate Art Detour for the first time or the 38th time, here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 festival.

On Friday, March 13, many metro Phoenix tattoo shops will open their doors all day—and some even into the night—to tattoo as many people as possible.

We’ve had a lot of readers ask how they can get involved in their communities, so we’re letting you know about upcoming opportunities. 

Here’s one event to consider this week:

GEN-Z Voter Registration Phone Bank Party

When: Thursday, March 19, 5-7 p.m.

Where: LD4 Office, 2980 E. Northern Ave., Suite C1, Phoenix

Description: “Together, we’re calling young Arizonans across the state, helping them get registered, informed, and ready to vote in 2026. Expect good vibes, community energy, music, training, and all the excitement that comes with organizing alongside the most determined generation in the state.”

Want more? We post weekly roundups of ways to get involved. Our friends at Collective Phoenix also keep a running list of events related to civics, advocacy, and volunteerism. You can also follow them on Instagram for updates. 

Share yours: What’s something you’ve done so far this year to better your community? Let me know and I may share some responses!

🪧 Have you seen these billboards around Phoenix? They’re calling out ICE’s cost to taxpayers. (Phoenix New Times)

🎨 A public art project in Tucson commemorated 100 years of Black History Month with murals that embody resilience. (Arizona Luminaria) 

⛽️ Buc-ee’s announced that its Goodyear location will open to the public on June 22. (Arizona’s Family)

Local news is essential for democracy.

Our reporting cuts through false narratives, documents what’s actually happening in our communities, and provides voters with the clear, factual information they need—especially when the stakes are high.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Jessica Swarner with stories from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect and Copper Courier Staff . It was edited by Paula Solis.

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