When running for office, U.S. President Joe Biden promised to change how America deals with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which enjoyed warm relations with the Trump White House. 

He vowed to stand up for human rights and refused to deal with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country’s de-facto ruler. But rising energy costs, brought on by the conflict in Ukraine, appears to have changed that calculus with the U.S. leader now hoping to convince Saudi Arabia, considered the world’s top swing producer, to increase production. 

This could help calm soaring prices at U.S. gas pumps, which could cost Democrats their majority in the upcoming midterm elections. Jim Stenman reports from Dubai. 

For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report.