high gas prices

[stevebeilgard]

am i the only one who has made the correlation that the arabs are raising gas to throw our economy into a tailspin, just to get a muslim elected? why this timing? why so much of a raise in oil prices? when will it stop? let's face it, the economy at the time of the elections, is what folks will think about as they pull the lever.

i think ruining our economy is fully intentional on their part to hurt bush, kill mccain's campaign, and get obama into office.:mad: our "friends", the arabs, AREN'T

[wtnhunt]

Sad truth is Steve, that one would have to wonder if there is not some similar motive behind some of our own law makers in regards to just what you posted here.

Seems I vaguely remember before the dems took control of the house and senate, that one of the things they promised American voters was that they would put political parties aside to work together to help the American people get some relief, what gives?????

[buckee]

We are up to $6.00 per gallon here now :eek:

[slugshooter]

While I do agree that rising prices from the supplier alternately raises costs for the buyer and on down the line. I find it interesting that with the cost of oil going up and gas prices rising and the every day consumer struggling to make ends meet, why are the oil companies consistently posting such record profits. It seems the only ones benefiting from the rising costs are the oil companies.

[oldksnarc]

I saw/read/heard where the profits are in-line with what any other industry would plan to attain during the normal course of corporate business. Everything's at record levels - the cost of making and selling everything continuously rises.

But, at the risk of repeating myself, like I said before our destruction is going to come from us imploding on ourselves and/or the collapse of our economy.

"There is no need for any further terrorist attacks by the Middle East/Muslims on America. They've already embarked on a path of destruction of America that is going to have greater consequence on us than any attacks on our buildings, infrastructure or citizens. The only reason to keep us looking for terrorists cells who are making plans for attacks and destruction, or for Osama to keep popping his head up periodically with threats of future attacks, is to keep us focused there instead of where the real attack and destruction is going to come from.

Think about it. Attacks on infrastructure and buildings like 9-11 results in the killing of innocent people, which only enrages us, and makes us come together as a people – which makes us stronger and more resolved against those who would harm us. The opposite effect they are looking for.

A better way to destroy us is to cause us to self-destruct and the best way to make us self-destruct is to make us argue among ourselves which, resultingly, causes us to implode upon ourselves. And, I’m not talking about the politics occurring right now with Obama whining, crying and stomping his feet because the President called him an appeaser.

I’m talking about the biggest problem facing us currently – energy.

We keep putting oil in reserve – which we should do for future emergencies – if nothing else than to allow us to have sufficient fuel to keep our military fueled in case of war or emergency and foreign sources dry up, i.e. we end up at war with foreign providers who will be likely to cut us off. The problem with our current energy crisis is that we can’t agree internally and among ourselves on what we should do. Rely on foreign oil or become self-sufficient thru our own resources and/or thru alternate energy sources?

Liberals/environmentalists oppose and/or restrict our off-shore drilling of our own coasts – yet allow foreign governments to drill almost without restriction off those same coasts. Foreign governments can benefit from what should be our oil but we can’t?

Liberals/environmentalists support alternate energy sources (wind, solar, etc) as long as it doesn’t harm some fruit fly or other inane creature. As George Carlin asked, how many tens of thousands of beings/creatures have become extinct over the millenniums of the planet Earth and we really think that as a race we can keep that from happening during our little piece of existence or during the normal course of the earth or solar system?

Liberals/environmentalists oppose opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil exploration, where there’s an estimated 10 billion barrels of oil, because of the potential harm to wildlife. Potential harm versus present/future crisis. As large as the area is isn’t it possible to accomplish both? Room for development and room for protecting the wildlife.

There is also an untapped oil reserve in the North Dakota/Montana/Saskatchewan region that has an estimated 100 billion barrels of which has been compared to being at least as large as the oil Saudi Arabia currently sits on. And, the cost per barrel of oil produced from these fields is estimated at $16 per barrel as opposed to $120+ barrels for foreign oil.

http://www.kiplinger.com/businessres...er_080317.html (http://www.kiplinger.com/businessresource/forecast/archive/The_U.S._Poised_to_hit_New_Oil_Gusher_080317.html)

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,349728,00.html (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,349728,00.html)

Add these to the existing and untapped fields remaining within our country and there is no need at all to rely on foreign energy. Yet, we still remain hostage to foreign (middle east/Muslim) countries and to domestic (liberals/environmentalists) influences.

Domestic oil exploration has to be coupled with the development of alternate energy sources, i.e. sun, wind, nuclear, and so forth. Yet these alternate sources have to become affordable to develop. Nuclear energy is one of the cheapest sources of energy to date – yet, again, the liberals/environmentalists have blocked any new developments for at least the last couple decades.

Future attacks of our buildings or infrastructure are unlikely. If they do attack it will be only to keep our focus misdirected while they destroy us economically. Higher energy prices affect everything in our society. Higher food prices and higher prices on absolutely everything we have and rely on because nothing is grown or produced without energy.

All this has amounted to economic terrorism and will result in America’s implosion on itself. Again, there is no need to attack us except to keep our focus misdirected. They have obviously already engaged in a plan of action designed to destroy our economy.

President Bush visited Saudi Arabia within the last two days and asked for increased oil production to help lower the price per barrel and price per gallon at the pump. Saudi Arabia’s response – we’ve examined the demand and see no need for increased production. That’s an ally willing to help us? Sounds more like an alleged ally willing to profiteer from our needs.

But, wait. Weren’t eighteen of the nineteen 9-11 hijackers Saudis? Isn’t Osama Saudi?

Until WE are willing to find ways to explore for oil AND protect the environment we will be responsible for our own destruction."

That’s all I have to say about that. – Forrest Gump

But, then again, I could be wrong. – Dennis Miller

[terry264]

I think there's something "crooked" going on in the oil industry. Why can people who live in the southern states that border Mexico just drive into Mexico and get their gas for about 40% less. Around 2.40/gal. as of yesterday. Long lines with special driving lanes there now for those who are buying gasoline. Why is it that expensive to cross the border into the U.S. for the same fuel?

[wtnhunt]

Just happened to have this story (http://my.att.net/s/editorial.dll?pnum=1&bfromind=7406&eeid=5920644&_sitecat=1181&dcatid=0&eetype=article&render=y&ac=0&ck=&ch=ne&rg=blsadstrgt&_lid=332&_lnm=tg+ne+topnews&ck=) on the main page for bellsouth when I was checking my email earlier


President, Congress offer no immediate help on gas prices

Published: 6/9/08, 1:00 PM EDT
By Ed Henry CNN White House Correspondent

WASHINGTON (CNN) - Before departing the White House early Monday for a farewell tour of Europe, President Bush stole a page from his predecessor and suggested he feels American consumers' pain.

"A lot of Americans are concerned about our economy," Bush said. "I can understand why. Gasoline prices are high, energy prices are high. I do remind them that we have put a stimulus package forward that is expected to help boost the economy. And of course, we'll be monitoring the situation."
Americans are looking for more action, though, than monitoring the situation.
But while gas prices keep soaring, the chances of Washington finding a solution keep dropping because Democrats and Republicans are deadlocked over how to fix the problem.
Bush talks mostly about increasing supply through more oil drilling in places like Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
"I've proposed to the Congress that they open up ANWR, open up the Continental Shelf, and give this country a chance to help us through this difficult period by finding more supplies of crude oil, which will take the pressure off the price of gasoline," Bush said Monday.
But Democrats like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are vehemently opposed to increasing production on environmental grounds, so the president's plan has virtually no chance of passage in the current Congress.
In turn, Democrats talk mostly about lowering demand for gasoline through research into alternative fuels -- something the president talks about too -- and more funds for mass transit.
"It's got to involve investing in alternative fuels, so that we can have some alternatives to gas and significant investment in public transit," Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine, a key supporter of Barack Obama's presidential bid, said Sunday.
These types of plans will take a long time to implement, so no quick fix there either.
And with the federal government now more than $9 trillion in debt, where would Congress find the money to pour into public transit and research into alternative fuels?
With the parties deeply divided on solutions, it's not surprising that last week a Senate bill requiring major cuts in greenhouse-gas emissions failed.
Only 48 of 100 senators voted for it amid charges by White House press secretary Dana Perino that the bill would have a devastating impact on the economy and thus might not really help cut the price in gasoline.
But six absent senators, including Obama and Republican John McCain, said they would have voted yes to end debate and move forward on the bill. That led some in Congress to declare that Congress will have the momentum to take action next year on reducing America's dependence on foreign oil.
All that means, however, is that there's optimism the next president might be able to find an energy compromise in 2009. In other words, don't expect any help from Washington any time soon.

[slugshooter]

I think there's something "crooked" going on in the oil industry. Why can people who live in the southern states that border Mexico just drive into Mexico and get their gas for about 40% less. Around 2.40/gal. as of yesterday. Long lines with special driving lanes there now for those who are buying gasoline. Why is it that expensive to cross the border into the U.S. for the same fuel?

Are they paying $2.40 per gallon, or per liter. I am not sure but I believe every country besides us utilizes the metric system. I know Canada does, not sure about Mexico. If that is the case, at $2.40 per liter, Mexico is paying much higher per gallon then we are.

[slugshooter]

Found this story while searching. The poster isn't too far off, but the potential negatives outweigh the possible incentive to crossing the border, not to mention the cost of actually driving across the border, and then waiting in line to cross into Mexico and return to the states. Since 9/11, you don't just drive across at your leisure, it takes awhile to get back across, especially if driving.

Gas prices fueling fill-ups in Mexico

By Marla Dickerson and Elizabeth Douglass
Los Angeles Times

TIJUANA, Mexico — U.S. motorists are flocking to gas pumps south of the border to save 25 percent or more on the cost of a fill-up — courtesy of the Mexican government.
Worried about inflation, Mexican officials are keeping a lid on retail prices at the state-owned petroleum company Pemex. A gallon of regular in this border town is selling for about $2.60. With prices in California averaging $3.43 — and topping $4 at some stations — drivers are grabbing a deal while they can.
Mexican station owners, too, are pumped by the surge in business. Although they say few Americans are traveling to Mexico specifically to fill their tanks, many more than usual are taking advantage of the chance to buy cheaper gas when they cross the border.
Pemex's pump sales are up 10.5 percent through the first four months of the year compared with the same period last year. Vendors are girding for a rush of business Memorial Day weekend as Americans head to Mexican vacation homes and take home a cheap souvenir in their tanks.
"This has been very, very favorable for us," said Jorge Farfan Gonzalez, general manager of a franchisee that operates 17 Pemex outlets in Baja.
But some say that low-cost gas might not be such a bargain.
Mexican stations are notorious for dispensing short liters. And their fuel, loaded with sulfur, isn't as clean as that mandated in California. That's tough on the environment, and it could harm catalytic converters on newer U.S. cars and trucks, too, said Rich Kassel, a clean-fuel expert with the Natural Resources Defense Council in New York.
"This is the extreme version of driving across town to save a nickel," Kassel said. "It doesn't make sense if you ... end up with fuel that is dirtier and can damage your engine."
There are other risks. Many Pemex attendants are unpaid freelancers hustling for tips — and the chance to shortchange distracted drivers. Some franchisees also have been known to dilute fuel to stretch profits.
The government regulates every aspect of Mexico's gas industry, including retail prices.
As U.S. gas prices have soared, Mexico's border prices for regular have remained at 7.41 pesos a liter, or about $2.60 a gallon. Prices in the interior are even lower at about $2.41 a gallon.

Copyright © 2007 The Seattle Times Company

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

I was in Mazatlan in February and gas was approximately the same price there as it was here at that time. My guess is that the demand in Mexico isn't as high, so it takes longer for price increases (and decreases) to make it to the pump.

[OJR]

SS, that article is copyright in 2007!

[slugshooter]

SS, that article is copyright in 2007!

I don't write it...I just steal and plagiarize it!:D

[ky_deerhunter_77]

I think there's something "crooked" going on in the oil industry. Why can people who live in the southern states that border Mexico just drive into Mexico and get their gas for about 40% less. Around 2.40/gal. as of yesterday. Long lines with special driving lanes there now for those who are buying gasoline. Why is it that expensive to cross the border into the U.S. for the same fuel?

The short answer is Mexico sepsedize (sp?) the gas prices. The Mexican government pays for some of the cost. Just like the U S help pay for biodiesel, ethanol, etc....

[nativetexan]

I think people have too much time on their hands to think up conspiracy theories. There is no doubt in my mind that Obama will screw things up royally as democrats always do, but I believe that world corporations have too much invested in this country to let it fail. Obama still has to answer to us, and if he thinks for one minute he doesn't, that will be the day that we will use the processes in place to remove him from office.

Times definitely suck right now, but it won't be forever.

[craig mack]

I think people have too much time on their hands to think up conspiracy theories. There is no doubt in my mind that Obama will screw things up royally as democrats always do, but I believe that world corporations have too much invested in this country to let it fail. Obama still has to answer to us, and if he thinks for one minute he doesn't, that will be the day that we will use the processes in place to remove him from office.

Times definitely suck right now, but it won't be forever.
Keep blaming Dems its not like we didnt just have a Republican in office for two terms. Funny how some of you think everything is the Dems fault and the Republicans can do no wrong. Gimme a break, they're all crooks!!!

[wtnhunt]

Keep blaming Dems its not like we didnt just have a Republican in office for two terms. Funny how some of you think everything is the Dems fault and the Republicans can do no wrong. Gimme a break, they're all crooks!!!

No it is not all the dems fault, you are right, but look at what the dems said prior to gaining control in 2006. They promised they would work together with the administration and do what they had to in order to make things better for the American consumers who were being hurt by high fuel prices, and look at where we are now. Fuel from then to now if I am not mistaken has taken a huge jump.

Something that cannot be denied by anyone is that the dems are the responsible party for having held up what would be progress with tapping our own resources and in the process making us less dependent on other countries, becoming more self supportive would be a huge win win if there ever could be one in my opinion. With some of what has taken place, or rather in some cases not taken place over the past 2 years, there is no question that they(dems) are not looking after the best interests of the average American consumer, and they are partly responsible for the situation we are in at this point in time.

[nativetexan]

Keep blaming Dems its not like we didnt just have a Republican in office for two terms. Funny how some of you think everything is the Dems fault and the Republicans can do no wrong. Gimme a break, they're all crooks!!!

I will continue to blame democrats. I will blame democrats for ignoring my 2A rights. I will blame democrats for pushing socialist programs on us like National Health Care. I will blame democrats for undermining our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan thus hurting their morale and not providing them with the best possible equipment to do their jobs. I will blame democrats for holding up budgets because of petty arguing and temper tantrums. I will blame democrats for not allowing us to tap our own resources in this country because its "pretty up there" and ignoring the technology and lessons learned about drilling in sensitive areas along with the plight of the American consumer. I will blame democrats for saying they were going to work together with republicans, and no sooner than the interview was over out come the knives. I will blame democrats for higher taxes to pay for such socialist programs that reward the "lazy" and penalize the "not lazy." I will blame democrats for trying to eliminate our outdoor heritage. I will blame democrats for allowing/promoting Nancy Pelosi's trip to meet with leaders of terrorist sponsors. I will blame democrats for being weak and wanting to "talk" and show weakness to our enemies because they can't possibly bear anymore war and death. I will blame democrats for ignoring completely the foundations for which this country was built on (attack, and we will kick your tail). I will blame democrats for blocking the locking down of the border. I will blame democrats for being sensitive to those who face the death penalty for the child they raped and killed. I will blame democrats for granting rights to prisoners at Gitmo and clogging up our legal system with people who have never been granted rights in this country, much less would rather run into a building filled with us and explode themselves. I will blame democrats for giving amnesty to illegal aliens and letting them use benefits in this country for which they are not entitled. I will blame democrats for allowing schools to become so weak and terrified of a 3 year old mentioning "gun" in the same sentence as "cowboy" that it garners suspension and a probation officer for life. For all of these things mentioned above and more, I simply have one label. Democrat. Certainly not Republicans. One last note, not one single person is ever responsible wholly for the failures of this country. In a sense, I blame the failures of Bush on the democrats who failed to let him succeed by blocking legislation that would have benefitted this country because of their liberal beliefs. End of story.

[NY_Bowhunter14]

I will continue to blame democrats. I will blame democrats for ignoring my 2A rights. I will blame democrats for pushing socialist programs on us like National Health Care. I will blame democrats for undermining our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan thus hurting their morale and not providing them with the best possible equipment to do their jobs. I will blame democrats for holding up budgets because of petty arguing and temper tantrums. I will blame democrats for not allowing us to tap our own resources in this country because its "pretty up there" and ignoring the technology and lessons learned about drilling in sensitive areas along with the plight of the American consumer. I will blame democrats for saying they were going to work together with republicans, and no sooner than the interview was over out come the knives. I will blame democrats for higher taxes to pay for such socialist programs that reward the "lazy" and penalize the "not lazy." I will blame democrats for trying to eliminate our outdoor heritage. I will blame democrats for allowing/promoting Nancy Pelosi's trip to meet with leaders of terrorist sponsors. I will blame democrats for being weak and wanting to "talk" and show weakness to our enemies because they can't possibly bear anymore war and death. I will blame democrats for ignoring completely the foundations for which this country was built on (attack, and we will kick your tail). I will blame democrats for blocking the locking down of the border. I will blame democrats for being sensitive to those who face the death penalty for the child they raped and killed. I will blame democrats for granting rights to prisoners at Gitmo and clogging up our legal system with people who have never been granted rights in this country, much less would rather run into a building filled with us and explode themselves. I will blame democrats for giving amnesty to illegal aliens and letting them use benefits in this country for which they are not entitled. I will blame democrats for allowing schools to become so weak and terrified of a 3 year old mentioning "gun" in the same sentence as "cowboy" that it garners suspension and a probation officer for life. For all of these things mentioned above and more, I simply have one label. Democrat. Certainly not Republicans. One last note, not one single person is ever responsible wholly for the failures of this country. In a sense, I blame the failures of Bush on the democrats who failed to let him succeed by blocking legislation that would have benefitted this country because of their liberal beliefs. End of story.




well said!

[oldksnarc]

Keep blaming Dems its not like we didnt just have a Republican in office for two terms. Funny how some of you think everything is the Dems fault and the Republicans can do no wrong. Gimme a break, they're all crooks!!!

Equally as funny... How the President can get blamed for hurricanes, tornadoes, economy, global warming, gas prices, corporate profits, kids who can't make the grade, and so forth. Congress is the ones who actually have a vote and can override any veto the President makes. 'Can dish it but can't take it' comes to mind.

All these - hurricanes, tornadoes, economy, global warming, gas prices, corporate profits, kids who can't make the grade, and so forth, were happening on a regular basis before 2000. But, let's blame the one there now.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

Back on the subject of high gas prices, I definitely think that politicians in general, and democrats in particular, are contributing heavily to the problem. This continued insistence that we go overseas for oil when we're sitting on enough oil to make us 100% independent from the Middle East for the next 50 - 60 years is just asinine.

How much oil do we have in the U.S.? Well over 7 times as much as Saudi Arabia. But because of legislative restraints it’s currently illegal for Americans to drill on American territory in the Atlantic, the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific, northern Alaska or to go after the Rocky Mountain shale oil.

And even if the price of oil didn't come way down, at least we'd be sending those oil dollars back into the U.S. economy instead of those other countries.

[craig mack]

I will continue to blame democrats. I will blame democrats for ignoring my 2A rights. I will blame democrats for pushing socialist programs on us like National Health Care. I will blame democrats for undermining our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan thus hurting their morale and not providing them with the best possible equipment to do their jobs. I will blame democrats for holding up budgets because of petty arguing and temper tantrums. I will blame democrats for not allowing us to tap our own resources in this country because its "pretty up there" and ignoring the technology and lessons learned about drilling in sensitive areas along with the plight of the American consumer. I will blame democrats for saying they were going to work together with republicans, and no sooner than the interview was over out come the knives. I will blame democrats for higher taxes to pay for such socialist programs that reward the "lazy" and penalize the "not lazy." I will blame democrats for trying to eliminate our outdoor heritage. I will blame democrats for allowing/promoting Nancy Pelosi's trip to meet with leaders of terrorist sponsors. I will blame democrats for being weak and wanting to "talk" and show weakness to our enemies because they can't possibly bear anymore war and death. I will blame democrats for ignoring completely the foundations for which this country was built on (attack, and we will kick your tail). I will blame democrats for blocking the locking down of the border. I will blame democrats for being sensitive to those who face the death penalty for the child they raped and killed. I will blame democrats for granting rights to prisoners at Gitmo and clogging up our legal system with people who have never been granted rights in this country, much less would rather run into a building filled with us and explode themselves. I will blame democrats for giving amnesty to illegal aliens and letting them use benefits in this country for which they are not entitled. I will blame democrats for allowing schools to become so weak and terrified of a 3 year old mentioning "gun" in the same sentence as "cowboy" that it garners suspension and a probation officer for life. For all of these things mentioned above and more, I simply have one label. Democrat. Certainly not Republicans. One last note, not one single person is ever responsible wholly for the failures of this country. In a sense, I blame the failures of Bush on the democrats who failed to let him succeed by blocking legislation that would have benefitted this country because of their liberal beliefs. End of story.
So all of Bush's failures are because of Democrats? WOW!!!! That's funny right there, I dont care who you are. Like I said before its funny how everythings the dems fault and the republicans can do no wrong. I'm not even sticking up for the dems, all I'm saying is that Bush is one of the WORST Presidents in this nations history and I cant say thats the Democrats fault.

[wtnhunt]

So all of Bush's failures are because of Democrats? WOW!!!! That's funny right there, I dont care who you are. Like I said before its funny how everythings the dems fault and the republicans can do no wrong. I'm not even sticking up for the dems, all I'm saying is that Bush is one of the WORST Presidents in this nations history and I cant say thats the Democrats fault.

Don't think anyone is saying that Bush or any republican has done no wrong here Craig. I do not agree that it is all the dems fault either, however they are a big part of the problems we face at this point in time and they have not helped us(the american people) when it comes to getting relief.

As far as the comment on Bush as president, I think in the long run history will likely say otherwise. He is obviously not popular in his time by the majority, but he has had situations that have been different than we have ever seen in the past and has had to make decisions that he knows or knew are or were not popular. I certainly do not envy a man who has to make those types of decisions. No doubt he has had his faults like any other person walking this earth, but hardly think he is or will be the worst in this nations history.

[slugshooter]

I will continue to blame democrats. I will blame democrats for ignoring my 2A rights. I will blame democrats for pushing socialist programs on us like National Health Care. I will blame democrats for undermining our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan thus hurting their morale and not providing them with the best possible equipment to do their jobs. I will blame democrats for holding up budgets because of petty arguing and temper tantrums. I will blame democrats for not allowing us to tap our own resources in this country because its "pretty up there" and ignoring the technology and lessons learned about drilling in sensitive areas along with the plight of the American consumer. I will blame democrats for saying they were going to work together with republicans, and no sooner than the interview was over out come the knives. I will blame democrats for higher taxes to pay for such socialist programs that reward the "lazy" and penalize the "not lazy." I will blame democrats for trying to eliminate our outdoor heritage. I will blame democrats for allowing/promoting Nancy Pelosi's trip to meet with leaders of terrorist sponsors. I will blame democrats for being weak and wanting to "talk" and show weakness to our enemies because they can't possibly bear anymore war and death. I will blame democrats for ignoring completely the foundations for which this country was built on (attack, and we will kick your tail). I will blame democrats for blocking the locking down of the border. I will blame democrats for being sensitive to those who face the death penalty for the child they raped and killed. I will blame democrats for granting rights to prisoners at Gitmo and clogging up our legal system with people who have never been granted rights in this country, much less would rather run into a building filled with us and explode themselves. I will blame democrats for giving amnesty to illegal aliens and letting them use benefits in this country for which they are not entitled. I will blame democrats for allowing schools to become so weak and terrified of a 3 year old mentioning "gun" in the same sentence as "cowboy" that it garners suspension and a probation officer for life. For all of these things mentioned above and more, I simply have one label. Democrat. Certainly not Republicans. One last note, not one single person is ever responsible wholly for the failures of this country. In a sense, I blame the failures of Bush on the democrats who failed to let him succeed by blocking legislation that would have benefitted this country because of their liberal beliefs. End of story.

So what you are saying is, is that Democrats are responsible for everything bad in America today?

Lets not forget that Bush had a Republican congress for almost 6 years that basically gave him a free pass on just about anything, and the patriotic fervor that followed 9/11, well, any president would have rode that wave as far as it would take them.

Republicans are just as guilty of not wanting to work with the opposite and vice versa. Newt Gingrich and the Republican congress of the nineties did not work with Clinton much like the Democratic congress of today does not want to work with Bush. Both sides are guilty of it, just as both sides are guilty of things that are not popular. Can you honestly say that you support and approve of every decision and vote that Republicans have made in your lifetime?

I don't know why Americans continue to vote and elect people that are either strictly liberal or conservative, especially since the majority of voters consider themselves moderate. Any election study of voters you find will tell you that. What we need is a true moderate president who is willing to examine both sides of an issue and make a decision that would benefit the most Americans, not what some interest group pushes on them, or what a religious group forces on them.

The only way to move forward is to work together.

[craig mack]

So what you are saying is, is that Democrats are responsible for everything bad in America today?

Lets not forget that Bush had a Republican congress for almost 6 years that basically gave him a free pass on just about anything, and the patriotic fervor that followed 9/11, well, any president would have rode that wave as far as it would take them.

Republicans are just as guilty of not wanting to work with the opposite and vice versa. Newt Gingrich and the Republican congress of the nineties did not work with Clinton much like the Democratic congress of today does not want to work with Bush. Both sides are guilty of it, just as both sides are guilty of things that are not popular. Can you honestly say that you support and approve of every decision and vote that Republicans have made in your lifetime?

I don't know why Americans continue to vote and elect people that are either strictly liberal or conservative, especially since the majority of voters consider themselves moderate. Any election study of voters you find will tell you that. What we need is a true moderate president who is willing to examine both sides of an issue and make a decision that would benefit the most Americans, not what some interest group pushes on them, or what a religious group forces on them.

The only way to move forward is to work together.
Well said. I hope one day both sides can work together.


And William, I agree that Bush has definatly had a rough road as President. But alot of the things he has done I dont agree with and the state of this country's economy being one of the main factors of my poor view of him. He has had to make some very difficult decissions that most Presidents have never had to make and I respect him for that. But I think he and the dems have put this country in a bad position and I just cant fault one, I have to fault both.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

Finding fault for past transgressions is one thing, but let's look at the present problem of high gas prices.

What do we need? A reliable source of oil at a reasonable price.

How is the best way to get it? By tapping the incredible amount of oil that's sitting undisturbed beneath our own feet.

So who is stopping that from happening???? And why????

[sskybnd]

im with you texan, maybe what the people up in washington are thinking, is we have alot of oil in this country, and by using it could lower the price alot but why do that, they might think one day not only will we be a super power but the world might have to depend on us for oil and what profit would we make than, my self i would give them a choice lower the cost or i'l let the other nations know that you will be alone should some one want to take your country over, and we will not try to stop them this time.

[nativetexan]

Ok. Let me take a stab at this.

[quote=slugshooter;910075]So what you are saying is, is that Democrats are responsible for everything bad in America today? No. I said that the democrats blocked Bush from doing things that would have benefitted this country. Only the democrats (and their constituents) got what they wanted. Had the republicans got even some of what they wanted, it would have benefitted the nation, plain and simple. That's not an opinion either...

Lets not forget that Bush had a Republican congress for almost 6 years that basically gave him a free pass on just about anything. Explain those "free passes." How did they effect you? Near as I can tell, the only real people whining about anything of that nature in our government was, well, you know.

And the patriotic fervor that followed 9/11, well, any president would have rode that wave as far as it would take them. Nice. Guess that cheapens the office a bit. I like to think more came of 9/11 than just a publicity stunt.

Republicans are just as guilty of not wanting to work with the opposite and vice versa. Newt Gingrich and the Republican congress of the nineties did not work with Clinton True, but I see big differences in Bush and Clinton. The biggest being one is not a liar and a socialist.

Much like the Democratic congress of today does not want to work with Bush. Payback I guess.

Both sides are guilty of it, just as both sides are guilty of things that are not popular. Yes, they are. Sometimes the unpopular decision is the best. That is part of the problem. We'll just fix it by creating a new law, and throwing money at it.

Can you honestly say that you support and approve of every decision and vote that Republicans have made in your lifetime? No, I cannot say that. But they most fit my views. Historically, some democrats have shared my same views and voted the way I wish they would, but it all comes down to party and power in the house and senate.

I don't know why Americans continue to vote and elect people that are either strictly liberal or conservative, especially since the majority of voters consider themselves moderate. Any election study of voters you find will tell you that. What we need is a true moderate president who is willing to examine both sides of an issue and make a decision that would benefit the most Americans, not what some interest group pushes on them, or what a religious group forces on them. You're right. That would be a great thing. If people were not notoriously selfish. As far as voters are concerned, you can also research the voter turnout for other parties and that may give you some kind of intel to show that even though people want a moderate president, they will still vote their party. McCain is the most moderate person to come around in a long time. He has a proven track record of reaching across aisles to get things done. We can only vote and hope that he pulls it off. Either way, he will still face just as many challenges in office as Bush did. He still agrees with the war, he is against gay marriage, he wants to drill in the U.S. for oil, he won't bargain with terrorists, etc. etc. and so on. All of which dems are against, and are not shy about going on the warpath to protect THEIR interests. Pelosi, Reid, Clinton, Schumer, and a select few others won't budge on anything..period. Tell me exactly how any of that mentioned above as far as problems listed benefit the nation by doing completely the opposite?

The only way to move forward is to work together. Agreed, but you have to convince people like me that even some liberal beliefs are somehow beneficial to this nation. Since things work on a give and take basis, you can bet that if they agree with something the republicans propose that will benefit the nation, I can't rightly say that I would return the favor because I have seen little, if anything good come out of the democratic party. That is my own personal opinion...

To get this back on the gas price discussion, I think it is safe to say that one party is blocking our ability to free ourselves from foreign oil, and eventually lower (even just a bit) gas prices. I won't say it, and I won't even explain how their decision doesn't benefit this nation, but i'll leave it up to you to figure out.

[nativetexan]

So all of Bush's failures are because of Democrats? WOW!!!! That's funny right there, I dont care who you are. Like I said before its funny how everythings the dems fault and the republicans can do no wrong. I'm not even sticking up for the dems, all I'm saying is that Bush is one of the WORST Presidents in this nations history and I cant say thats the Democrats fault.

I don't believe that Bush is one of the worst. WOW!!! The democrats have set out to destroy this presidency from the get go. That doesn't just mean those that sit in our government. That means those that report on the president also, and with the help of special interest groups, we now have a president with his hands tied that is percieved by a nation as a failure because of creative use of the media. Which is b.s., and sends the message to the world that our government is ineffective and backs up claims made by our enemies, which emboldens their cause, which recruits more people that are against us. The democratic party has turned into a cancer in this country. That is my opinion, and I am glad you got a giggle from it. But really, I don't find anything funny about it.

[OJR]

Let's just say one thing! It is a direct result of ALL POLITICANS!

[craig mack]

Let's just say one thing! It is a direct result of ALL POLITICANS!
Thats the best post so far!!!:D:D:D

[Jeramie]

Let's just say one thing! It is a direct result of ALL POLITICANS!


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Dont gorget lawyers.....

[stevebeilgard]

this republican/democrat thing is playing out RIGHT NOW! let's see who blocks progress. the president yesterday called for congress to open up drilling offshore. the dems are currently holding it up. so, we'll soon see just who wants to drill and who doesn't, and why. btw, 67% of americans want to drill (rasmussen poll).

what we do know is that we have more oil known in the u.s. than ALL of the persian gulf combined. we can talk politics all century long here, or we can wait a few days and SEE what our politicians do. i predict that the dems will NOT vote to drill anywhere at any time. simple as that.

[wtnhunt]

this republican/democrat thing is playing out RIGHT NOW! let's see who blocks progress. the president yesterday called for congress to open up drilling offshore. the dems are currently holding it up. so, we'll soon see just who wants to drill and who doesn't, and why. btw, 67% of americans want to drill (rasmussen poll).

what we do know is that we have more oil known in the u.s. than ALL of the persian gulf combined. we can talk politics all century long here, or we can wait a few days and SEE what our politicians do. i predict that the dems will NOT vote to drill anywhere at any time. simple as that.

ARGHHHHH.:mad::mad::mad:

Peterson from PA just got done speaking on his ammendment just a few minutes ago.

From what I am hearing on fox news they did not even allow for a vote.:mad: Democratic leadership already postponed the vote, that probably would have had enough support at this point in time, to lift the ban on offshore drilling.:(:mad:

[craig mack]

If they passed it how long do you think it would take for the drilling and the oil to drop gas prices? Would it happen immediatly or would it take a year or more?

[wtnhunt]

If they passed it how long do you think it would take for the drilling and the oil to drop gas prices? Would it happen immediatly or would it take a year or more?

Probably not immediate to see substantial drops, but less than a year in my opinion for it to be back to where it was a couple years ago.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

If they passed it how long do you think it would take for the drilling and the oil to drop gas prices? Would it happen immediatly or would it take a year or more?

As soon as the markets are sure that the domestic production is about to increase dramatically, we'll start seeing a decline.

[stevebeilgard]

As soon as the markets are sure that the domestic production is about to increase dramatically, we'll start seeing a decline.

EXACTLY!!! now, if clinton had allowed anway to start 10 years ago, we'd today have all the oil flowing that we need. if we start now in anwar, we'll have that same oil in 5-6 years. nothing immediate, but a good start. too bad we didn't start 30 years ago....:rolleyes:

[TreeStandBowHunter]

Thailand has pretty cheap gas. Our dollar is worth a lot more in Thai Baht. When I was there last month, it was only about 100 Baht for a liter of gas in Utapaou. With our exchange rate, we got roughly 140 Baht for our dollar. Therefore, that puts it around 3 dollars for a gallon of gas or maybe a little less than that. I think it is like 3.7 liters to a gallon or something like that anyway.

I know with my salary of just being in the Military, I am considered rich in Thailand. Some of you would be millionairs in Thailand. No wonder I seen so many Americans there:D

[NS whitetail]

one word sums it up :

GREED :mad::mad::mad::mad:

[ky_deerhunter_77]

one word sums it up :

GREED :mad::mad::mad::mad:
Who's greed?

It's more about POWER. my .02

[stevebeilgard]

one word sums it up :

GREED :mad::mad::mad::mad:

in america, the gas companies make an average of 6 cents profit on every gallon of gas. to bet that they risk drilling, huge investments, hire people, and at the end of the year DO make billions of dollars, 6 cents at a time.

meanwhile, the government makes 18 cents a gallon for doing absolutely nothing. and the same government folks complain about the "obscene profits" made by the oil companies. the canadian government is much worse:o. taxes to you are why we pay 75 cents a gallon LESS than you do for gas drilled and refined in canada. so, i hope your "greed" thing was directed at government. ;):)

[oldksnarc]

I agree - the government makes more off the oil than the oil companies do. But, on the other hand, that $0.18 pays for highway improvements. If the highways in your state aren't as good as those in Kansas then maybe the money is being mis-spent.

McCain does support off-shore drilling but not in the ANWR.

Yes, we have more oil than the middle east ever thought of having. However, the liberals will not vote for any new drilling (off-shore, ANWR, North Dakota or the shale-oil in the Rockies) because of the environmental issues and they are trying to force us to go Green. They want us to go Green to protect the environment over reducing the price per gallon. In fact, BHO has said he'd rather us continue paying highers prices per gallon to wean us from oil rather than to continue to using fossil fuel.

But, if we approve new drilling - which IMO will force the middle east oil prices down - it would still be good to continue using theirs (at reduced prices) and keep ours in reserve for the future. Done right we can accomplish both - reduce the price per barrel AND keep ours for us later on when we really need it. When theirs runs out we can hike our prices and show them what it felt like.

[Jeramie]

As soon as the markets are sure that the domestic production is about to increase dramatically, we'll start seeing a decline.

Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes.... Thats dead on the money.

Part of the pricing we pay right now is Futures. That can go both ways. Id give it just a few months and prices should start to fall to a noticable level.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

...However, the liberals will not vote for any new drilling (off-shore, ANWR, North Dakota or the shale-oil in the Rockies) because of the environmental issues and they are trying to force us to go Green. They want us to go Green to protect the environment over reducing the price per gallon...
Well, that's what the liberals give lip service to. But in reality, many of them, especially the elites like George Soros, are just plain anti-American and anti-capitalist. They WANT to see the U.S. brought down to the level of a third world country. And they plan to do that by either scaring or shaming us into changing our lifestyles "voluntarily."

[NS whitetail]

in america, the gas companies make an average of 6 cents profit on every gallon of gas. to bet that they risk drilling, huge investments, hire people, and at the end of the year DO make billions of dollars, 6 cents at a time.

meanwhile, the government makes 18 cents a gallon for doing absolutely nothing. and the same government folks complain about the "obscene profits" made by the oil companies. the canadian government is much worse:o. taxes to you are why we pay 75 cents a gallon LESS than you do for gas drilled and refined in canada. so, i hope your "greed" thing was directed at government. ;):)

YES sir, sorry I should have been more clear.

The taxes that we pay on fuel is outrageous :mad:, our government has already stated that they will give no tax breaks. Our Premier of Nova Scotia was on the news one night and said " if people don't like the price of gas and high taxes, then they should start using the Public Transportation ( buses )" --- he's a Moron, and I'm not alone in that thought,

well, living here in rural NS, I've never seen a bus go by my house lol

Think about it this way : as long as people are still buying, why would the price drop ?
I do not see any solution to it, the prices will keep rising, people will keep buying ( cause you need it ) and the rich will get richer :rolleyes:

[wtnhunt]

well, living here in rural NS, I've never seen a bus go by my house lol

Think about it this way : as long as people are still buying, why would the price drop ?
I do not see any solution to it, the prices will keep rising, people will keep buying ( cause you need it ) and the rich will get richer :rolleyes:

Yeah, I hear you Lewis, no public transportation out here in the boonies either. The wife said she wanted a scooter, lol.:o Really not an option for a 13 mile commute to work here though.

Drilling here at home is a viable solution for us, however that might not bring the prices down worldwide. Would tend to think it would, but don't know. If indeed the arabs and others like Chavez are only limiting their production to hurt us as some suspect, would make sense that if we tap our own and become less dependant on them that they would be forced to have to rethink about doing such. Would certainly change some perspectives.

From what I heard this morning, day by day more and more are in favor of drilling here at home.

[Jeramie]

Well, that's what the liberals give lip service to. But in reality, many of them, especially the elites like George Soros, are just plain anti-American and anti-capitalist. They WANT to see the U.S. brought down to the level of a third world country. And they plan to do that by either scaring or shaming us into changing our lifestyles "voluntarily."

Ever hear of the Fabian (sp?) Society? The English sure have and many have been trying to probe that is the same effect many are trying to have on the US.

Take it one little chip at a time instead of breaking off a lot.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

How about this to put things into the proper perspective...

If Alaska was a moose, ANWR would be the moose's tail. And the area of ANWR that would be opened for drilling would be the size of a flea on the moose's tail.

But can we disturb that flea sized spot? Oh no, not according o the enviro-wackos. That might upset a polar bear.

Well, you can't ride a polar bear to work.

[stevebeilgard]

here's another size comparison: imagine a football field. now, place a quarter on that field. that is how much land would be disturbed in anwar. 1/100 of 1%.

but, here's the real point. NO ONE GOES TO ANWAR. there are only a few thousand visitors each year, and they don't go into it because you can only walk in. no planes, no vehicles. horses or walking. no hunting, no chain saws, no motors of any type. imagine a park 8 times the size of yellowstone park, with that few visitors. and enough oil for a looooooong time. write to your senators and congresspeople.

[JJL]

Gasoline is $4.00/gal because crude oil is $140.00/barrel.

Crude oil prices are at record highs because people playing the markets are the one's making the OBSCENE profits. DO you actually think that gold - corn - soybeans and other commodities are at all-time highs because there is a shortage of these products? NO, it's because the traders in the pits could no longer make money trading Enron - Microsoft - Apple - and GM stocks so they switched over to the commodities markets and they're whoreing out the country for the sake of their pocket books by trading up oil futures.

It has ZERO to do with supply and demand.


Even if we can boost domestic production 1,000,000,000 barrels/day, that will just give them more to trade and it will have only a minor effect on the price of a gallon of gas. As long as the Idiots on the Mercantile Exchange are allowed to play "Monopoly" with the future of our country we're going to see high oil prices. Therein lies the problem.



Drilling offshore and in ANWR is a great step in America becoming more self sufficient in our energy needs, and should be done immediately. However it will have a very minor influence on the price of a gallon of gas.


The great socialist minds in this country longed for they day when we would become a more European Community. Well they got their wish. $5.00 gasoline.......$20.00 steaks.........Stupid little cars........... Over priced housing............ Bad movies. I sure hope we get to keep our deodorant.

[stevebeilgard]

we'll see if jim is correct. opec is meeting as i write this, with the intention of upping production 1/2 million barrels a day. we'll know soon if gas prices come down, and how much. as far as the commodities traders are concerned, i agree it's them hurting us. i hope they all go broke.

[NS whitetail]

Who's greed?

It's more about POWER. my .02

I will tell you who's GREED, on the news tonight it said that the President of OPEC is predicting a price of $170 / barrel this summer, this isn't just something that they come out with off of the top of thier heads :mad:, they are dirty rotten greedy ................ :mad:

This is abit about OPEC :

According to its statute (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statute), the principal goal is the determination of the best means for safeguarding their interests, individually and collectively; devising ways and means of ensuring the stabilization of prices in international oil markets (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_industry) with a view to eliminating harmful and unnecessary fluctuations; giving due regard at all times to the interests of the producing nations and to the necessity of securing a steady income to the producing countries; an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petroleum) to consuming nations, and a fair return on their capital to those investing in the petroleum industry."[4] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OPEC#cite_note-3).

-----------------

OPEC daily price sets new record
www.chinaview.cn (http://www.chinaview.cn/index.htm) http://imgs.xinhuanet.com/icon/2006english/2007korea/space.gif 2008-06-25 21:09:05 http://imgs.xinhuanet.com/icon/2006english/xiao.jpg (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-06/25/content_8438260.htm#)http://imgs.xinhuanet.com/icon/2006english/2007korea/space.gifhttp://imgs.xinhuanet.com/icon/2006english/da.jpg (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-06/25/content_8438260.htm#)http://imgs.xinhuanet.com/icon/2006english/2007korea/space.gif Print (http://javascript<b></b>:doPrint();)


VIENNA, June 25 (Xinhua) -- The crude oil price of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) set a new record Tuesday, data released by the Vienna-based cartel showed Wednesday.

One barrel of OPEC-produced crude stood at 131.25 U.S. dollars Tuesday, 0.55 dollars higher than the previous day.
The last record, 130.87 dpb, was set on June 9.
A global meeting on oil prices in the Saudi port city of Jeddah failed to curb the soaring prices Sunday.
The promise by Saudi Arabia to increase output by 200,000 dpb has had almost no impact on the market. The one-day meeting also revealed opinion differences among OPEC member countries over the assessment of the international oil market as well as measures to stabilize oil prices. The weak dollar, speculations and geopolitical crises are still pushing oil prices higher and the outlook remains grim, experts said.

This part is really encouraging : The weak dollar, speculations and geopolitical crises are still pushing oil prices higher and the outlook remains grim, experts said.

[FSU_Seminole]

Gasoline is $4.00/gal because crude oil is $140.00/barrel.

Crude oil prices are at record highs because people playing the markets are the one's making the OBSCENE profits. DO you actually think that gold - corn - soybeans and other commodities are at all-time highs because there is a shortage of these products? NO, it's because the traders in the pits could no longer make money trading Enron - Microsoft - Apple - and GM stocks so they switched over to the commodities markets and they're whoreing out the country for the sake of their pocket books by trading up oil futures.

It has ZERO to do with supply and demand.


Even if we can boost domestic production 1,000,000,000 barrels/day, that will just give them more to trade and it will have only a minor effect on the price of a gallon of gas. As long as the Idiots on the Mercantile Exchange are allowed to play "Monopoly" with the future of our country we're going to see high oil prices. Therein lies the problem.



Drilling offshore and in ANWR is a great step in America becoming more self sufficient in our energy needs, and should be done immediately. However it will have a very minor influence on the price of a gallon of gas.


The great socialist minds in this country longed for they day when we would become a more European Community. Well they got their wish. $5.00 gasoline.......$20.00 steaks.........Stupid little cars........... Over priced housing............ Bad movies. I sure hope we get to keep our deodorant.


Excellent post. But I disagree with you about 1 thing. OPEC is playing a cat & mouse game with the USA, China & India. China & India need oil very badly because of their growing economies. Instead of increasing production, they've kept production the same & now they sell oil to the highest bidder. I believe that cetain players in this country DO NOT want increased oil production because of the huge profits being made.

And I know some might disagree with me but something just is not right the the Bush/Cheney relationship with the Saudis. When they were first elected it disturbed me that the VP was having secret energy meetings structuring an energy policy without any participation or insight by the congress.

Something else I just don't understand. Before the war in Iraq their were 2 oil fields discovered. They can supply the USA at our current rate of usage for the next 200 years. Why isn't that being prepared to drill? Whats the hold up?

[stevebeilgard]

there's lots of other pretty sick things out there to be sore about. there would not be a kuwait unless we went to war in 1991 and saved their butt. we paid the bills, and now it's the chinese who are rebuilding/have rebuilt their country. where were- where ARE- these folks for us?? why don't they give us oil to help the families of those who fought and got wounded and/or died for them?

we need to inform the entire world that they are on their own for a few years, and see how their lives improve. yet, we can't.