Who To Blame For Gas Prices?
By Justin Foss, Reporter
By
Justin Foss
Story Created:
Apr 18, 2008
Story Updated:
Apr 18, 2008
CEDAR RAPIDS - One of the worst things we all face isn't the rising gas prices, it's the fact we don't seem to have much control over it.
Even while the government says the national consumption is expected to drop this year, prices keep rising.
Want to complain? It seems no one knows who to blame. However, politicians seem to come first.
"They're not listening to the people then, just stand at the pump, go to the grocery stores, those are the issues," said Tom Hopper as he filed up his truck.
If we used a lot less gas, some think prices would drop. So how about putting people in smaller cars?
"They're wrong, look at how many millions of vehicles are out there, what are you going to do with them all? Everyone goes to 4 cylinder or 2 cylinder, those little ditty cars. That's not practical," said Ron Gage as he filed up.
Okay, maybe we need to drive less. Some don't think that would work either.
"I think people of today are so used to luxury, that they don't know how, don't know how to give up," said Ronald Bronsema after he filled up.
Add all that up, it seems likely we'll be just as used to $4 gas as we are right now to $3 gas.
The Energy Information Administration says we should expect prices to peak this spring at $3.60 a gallon.
They're not making any guesses, right now, about what it could be this summer.
Sunday, Apr 27 at 2:03 PM It's Time wrote ...
And there are obstacles like weather. Especially in Florida where there is dangerous lightning all summer, so walking and riding a bike is not an option. The option... Gas prices need to come way down, wages need to increase, and we need to end our dependence on oil. Whatever basketcase thinks that the economy is in good shape right now needs to take an economics course. My History professor would disagree with you. What drugs are you on?
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 27 at 1:51 PM It's Time wrote ...
In Europe, prices are even higher but it doesn't affect many european because everything is close together. We have to be realistic in saying we can ride a bike to school or work or to the store because cities and even smaller suburban areas are not built that way. Things are too far apart, not to mention that it's dangerous. We are not to blame for our dependence on cars because we did not plan how our surroundings are set up around us. Distance is too great for many that commute to work.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 27 at 1:30 PM It's Time wrote ...
My point is; your employees are affected if you are a business owner becuse they won't be able to afford to work for you any longer so then you are a one man show, next thing you know, you make less profits yourself because these same lower class people can't buy, which is most of the population. Until then, you are safe. Only until then. It's going to come back on you greedy jerks tenfold when this happens. If nobody works at these types of jobs anymore, Will you keep your business?
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 27 at 12:53 PM It's Time wrote ...
It's time to revolt. That is exactly what is going to happen as we are about to reach the end of our rope. My fiance has excellent credit and is talking about running up a bunch of gas cards, a different one each time he has to fill up and not paying for them. Great idea! I am a full time college student so I can only handle working part time for now as I'm trying to get an education. My $$ go into tank so I have 0 $$ for fun and fun is necessary for good mental health and relationships.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 27 at 12:43 PM chris in goose creek sc wrote ...
I agree with the person that said to raise up prices on U.S. commodities to the countrys that are gouging us Im also surprised that people in our country have not started riots and had a Boston tea party type of answer to our politicians and the people responsible of this outrage i think george w is to blame and its about time we as american citizens stand up and make a change.....
Flag for moderationTuesday, Apr 22 at 3:16 PM THE KEEPER wrote ...
JET FUEL, M1-A1, M1-A2 TANKS, HUMMERS, DUECE 1/2, 5 TONS, HEMMET FUEL TANKERS, A10 WARTHOGS, C130s, APACHE, COBRAS, STEALTH, B1 BOMBER, M113s, BRADLEYS, AND ALL THE OTHER NUMEROUS WASTE OF FUEL IN THE GULF,PAKASTAN, IRAG, PANAMA, AND ALL THE OTHER PLACES ON EARTH. TRY AND CALCULATE 1 MONTHS FUEL WASTE WITH JUST THIS SMALL AMOUNT I JUST MENTIONED. AN M1A1 CAN BURN 500 GALS IN LESS THAN A DAY. START CALCULATING. THE KEEPER
Flag for moderationMonday, Apr 21 at 10:24 PM Deborah Whitaker wrote ...
I find it hard to believe that the U.S. government can't do anything to stop the gouging that we pay at the pumps. I am afraid that if gas prices keep going up that people will have so much frustration that anything can happen. I know that Americans expect alot more than citizens of other countries. We have always had more. It's hard to live with out when you've always had it so good.High gas prices could give us all a lesson in humility, but I think its time to stop the bleed! I am humbled!
Flag for moderationMonday, Apr 21 at 11:26 AM Iveshadenuf wrote ...
I agree with Carlos..It won't change until the government changes. a lot of comments, here or in the paper, say if you want a change do it by voting. vote one dope in for another? We need to get big business and big money out of campaigns. this government is by the people for the people....not by the corporations for the corporations. Bipartisanship needs to be done away with also. Our representatives need to represent us not what the president or the speaker wants, but what we want.
Flag for moderationMonday, Apr 21 at 8:18 AM Helpless wrote ...
It's pretty sad being a single mom that can barely afford to put enough gas to get to and from work.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 11:33 PM Lynerd wrote ...
I dont have the answer other than use less, think twice,they know we need the fuel and only a few produce it so they can charge whatever they want..no one watches out for the middle class.. we carry all the rest
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 11:02 PM Eric wrote ...
Remember when gas was under $1.00? Just before George W took over the country!!!
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 9:49 PM Anonymous wrote ...
One thing is deffinat that the higher the gas get someone is takeing in the shorts some place. You only have so much money each month to live right. so in the end the restraunts or the gas sations are fighting for the last of our hard earnd money.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 8:21 PM Carlos, again. wrote ...
I wasn't finished yet. Now, More than 3 billion Chinese, Indians (in India) and Muslims, half the worlds population compared to our nation of 300 million, would like to fill up (not Ethenol) too and that will drive the price skyrocketing by decades end. The world doesn't need us anymore as a producer or a consumer. And given our bully foreign policy, they like it that way. All of a sudden we realize, some things should never have been given to the private sector. Natural resources was one.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 8:08 PM Carlos M.T. wrote ...
I hope gasoline reach $5 a gallon. Maybe $6! We are all too blame. Our politics. Our politicians. Our greed. Our relentless pursuit of the biggest trucks and SUV's. Our war to steal another country's oil. For the investors who don't find it, drill it, rig it, produce it, or ship it. They just want the profit no matter what. Raise the price, steal it, reduce production, whatever, just grow the profit. Let the price of oil help us see the truth. A MOUNTAIN OF CREDIT ON A MOLEHILL OF MONEY-1929.
Flag for moderationSunday, Apr 20 at 7:02 PM Anonymous wrote ...
Everyone that keeps saying they want a change just keep voting democrat like the last election. Your already seeing the fallout from voting in the democrats. Keep raising taxes, bringing in the illegals and hugging trees.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 9:05 PM A real car guy who loves gas wrote ...
Look to companys like Exxon who make 40 billion on sales of 400 billion dollars. Theie plan is to not increase production of gas from 2007 through 2011. They have no interest in providing cheap fuel for the American market. Like it or not this is the large oil producing companies agenda. They have made very little money from the us market until the last 3 years. They feel they owe us nothing. We need to take this opportunity to develop real alternatives to gas, such as electric and hydrogen.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 6:15 PM interested wrote ...
The post at 2:32 pm, states the economy is the best ever? Please state your facts on this! Easy to make such a statement, now back it up! Time to wake up from your fanatsy world.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 4:51 PM Rand wrote ...
Why gas prices are high? Lets see, maybe the people who bidding up the futures is a start, never mind that we dont drill for anything in this country, and the demand from China and India is ever increasing. Our Govt makes more $$ from a gallon of gas than do the Oil companies that actually do the work getting it to us.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 4:20 PM ic wrote ...
the news keeps saying that prices are going up...i don't think anything is going up, our Dollar is simply dropping in value against other comodities and currincies...Poor people want to drive SUVs, 8-cylinder cars or drive 90miles an hour on highway 380...it's time for people in the US to realize that you CANNOT live off credit cars or spend more money than you have coming in... maybe then our future will look bright again.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 3:24 PM Anonymous wrote ...
To you, "too high" Not everyone can afford to stop and get a $3 energy drink everyday before work.... therefor not everyone can afford $3.50 gas prices!!! I'd like to see what your paycheck is and compare it to mine, maybe that would snap you back into reality!!! Some people have to drive 20miles to work because its too expensive to live close to work if you work in Iowa City!!! Come on....itsn't it a little rediculus to think that everyone can afford it because you can?!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 2:32 PM its time wrote ...
I think it's time to quit blaming everyone for your financial problems. We live in the richest country in the world. Thank God for it. Let the gas go up, it's called progress and the economy is the best its ever been, no matter what the liberal media says.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 10:27 AM Energy Independence wrote ...
We need to ignore the tree huggers, do more drilling on the north slope of alaska the gulf of mexico and north dakota. And while we are doing this offer incentives to invent better ways to motor our vehicles, hydrogen, electric we have people capable of making us energy independent.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 9:57 AM drivng less wont work wrote ...
First off The gov says to drive less, we did. then they cry about the huge loss of rev last year from it. Now they are talking about a 10-49 cent gas tax to make up for it. Because people are not traveling as much so the tax will help make up the loss. Wouldn't that just do the oppisitte? I mean if we cant afford it now, by raising it its going to make us get out and drive more? No if they rteally wanted to help us they would lower it a dollar or 2. Why cant they do that?
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 9:12 AM ticked off wrote ...
Casey's said they made 14 million in profit last year just due to their gas sales. Even though the sales were lower. All the people that run gas stations say they do not make much on gas. Come on now. 14 million for just a small chain of gas stations? check out theGasSecret.com this product looks like at least it will help your mileage.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 7:47 AM jackdaniel wrote ...
What about our wages ,The price of gas & food are going up,but not our wages to pay for this stuff.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 7:10 AM Lots of comments wrote ...
To the person that said we should raise government assistance, GET A JOB!!! To those that say stop driving SUV's and trucks, try pulling a 12000# trailer with a toyota. A lot of people have a need for a big truck, and can't afford anything else. To those that say quit building new homes, where are all the illegal immigrants supposed to live? End oil company record profits, end illegal immigration, all problems will go away. HOPE THE DEMOCRATS WIN IN NOVEMBER!!!!!!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 7:09 AM Anonymous wrote ...
maybe some of us drive those big vans, mini vans because we have a family, and if we are in that big van, mini van by ourself it's probably because it's the only thing they might have to drive, it's not their fault if they have to drive that big van, truck, e.t.c if it's the only thing they have to drive, and you don't take your family to work with you.. so you would have to be in the van by yourself.. it's not their choice they have to have a van or a bigger thing to drive with a family,
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 6:24 AM matthew wrote ...
you think it's bad now!? its like $6.00 a gal. in japan we actually have some of the cheapest gas. just untill it's 4 to 5 dollars a gall. everyone will be crying then!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 6:23 AM Think about it....... wrote ...
Isnt it funny that when minimum wage is rasied that all the other things seem to go up in price to? It make perfect sence to me.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 4:51 AM Masters Degree In Business wrote ...
I’ve read every comment and no one has it right. 1 The oil companies do not set the oil prices 2 Opec does not set the oil prices 3 Bush has no control over the oil price 4 Oil prices are determined by a. How much oil is in production b. World market speculations 5 The theory of supply and demand states that has supplies fall demand, and thus prices, will increase. The problem with this is that our present supply has not fallen. It Congress and not Bush that has control.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 4:21 AM Ban SUVs wrote ...
Here's a solution, throw all the SUVs away that are sucking down our supply of gas. Especially when ONE person drives the SUV by themself. Is that really necessary??? NO!!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 1:12 AM To Alternative Advocate... wrote ...
One little problem with your hydrogen idea... What are we going to do with all the water? I'm sure you've driven in an ice storm. if we have hydrogen powered cars, with the fact they emit water as a byproduct, that water ends up on the road way... if its below freezing the highway becomes an ice rink. Hydrogen isnt the answer either. Remember when you burn hydrogen you get water as the exhaust. H 02 = H20. In winter... CRASH!!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Apr 19 at 12:19 AM enough wrote ...
Okay, drive like the 70's..at 55 mph. It helped back then didn't it? Don't blame anyone. Offer ideas to bring down the demand and be ready to accept the fact that this is a long term problem.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:09 PM Lisa wrote ...
Well when i get my stimulus payment i refuse to spend it right away because that is what they want us to do. Drive around and but more gas/ people need to wake up and see what they are doing to us. Then when the stimulus payments come thru they are going to drop gas to make it look like they did a world of good...I aint fallin for it sorry..Mine will be in my account til this bs blows over
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:03 PM Trina wrote ...
I think its a crying shame that they think that since they are sending us that stimulus payment that it makes them look good..No actually they are only putting money back in their own pockets and trying to make us believe they are helping us out...Sure they are helping the economy by higher gas prices and giving us money to spend on it. Think about it. Just in time for the prices of gas to sky rocket..they arent fooling ME! Who can afford to spend that frivulously with prices the way they are
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:32 PM Want A Change..Vote Democrat this fall wrote ...
If you want a change, vote for the Democrats this fall. When you vote an oil man in for President, you deserve the high gas prices you are getting now.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:15 PM Harold van Beek wrote ...
The gas companies are just enriching themselves. In Europe the gas price is also sky rocketing. The trade of oil is done in $. So the euro went in 3 years fom $1.16 to $1,58 you should expect that the prices in euros woulg go down, but this is not happening. It is just robbing the people, that is all!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:11 PM Coal Prices Stable wrote ...
Hydrogen explodes. Remember the Hindenberg? Price of coal has been stable and it doesn't explode. Power plants burn it to make most of our electricity, so I'm putting that technology to work on a smaller scale by building a coal-fired dumptruck. It'll pour out black smoke and be able to shove all those little microcompact cars aside in traffic. Everybody will want one, except environmentalists, but they'll be too busy trying to pry their way out of their microcompacts to protest.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:07 PM Faithful wrote ...
Every night before you go to bed, pray that gas prices will be lower the next day. I bet if we all do it TOGETHER it will work! Come on, lets try! What can it hurt?
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:05 PM Mike tuel wrote ...
I have read alot about the weak dollar.This Is where the goverment wants It to stay.By keeping the dollar low.Other Countries are supposed to look at America like were having a Sale and spend there money here on purchasing goods,Take vacations here.But this seems like 9/11 and we are Inviting problems here.God Bless Our Troops.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:31 PM Mike Tuel wrote ...
As a former Refinery worker.I know these workers are making 30.00 plus per hour.What Is the natoinal pay average for this work and why so much.Today every penny counts so we need to stop paying road tax on gasoline when we fill up our gas can for our lawnmowers.This Is not much but the States are not doing anything about It.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:51 PM Doug wrote ...
OK, everybody, close your eyes, click your heels together three times, and say, " There is no price fixing. There is no price fixing."
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:09 PM Anonymous wrote ...
just remember its you guys that vote for the government you have,our leaders have a plan its called world war 3
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 5:39 PM U.S. Oil wrote ...
There are roughly 200-500 Billion Barrels of oil in North Dakota and Montana. Problem is there are only a few oil companies who control almost every step in the process of getting it out of the ground and to the gas station. The same companies are contributing mega bucks to political campaings, so don't expect the government to do anything about the price of gas. The answer to this and many other problems is campain finance reform!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 5:31 PM Rob wrote ...
Alternative Advocate, where are you going to get the hydrogen? The vast majority of hydrogen comes from fossil fuels. Producing hydrogen from water is not cost effective. Not the mention the high cost of fuel cells.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 5:26 PM Anon wrote ...
Another reason is the EPA regulation emission's on diesel trucks, it costs more to refine the diesel (ULDF) and the semis dont get as much fuel economy as they used to, they used to get about 6-7 mpg, and these new emission trucks get 4-5, and just think of how many trucks are out there, thats a lot more fuel. I say start drilling, 1 hole per state and they keep the gas in each state. Won't that work?
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:56 PM Get educated wrote ...
If you REALLY want to blame someone about high gas prices you should go to YouTube and search Lindsey Williams. Watch all 8 parts and then come back here and we can have an intelligent discussion-
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:53 PM Keith wrote ...
I dont know what makes you think cutting our use is going to drop prices. W3e have been cutting our use and prices continue to rise. The less we buy the more thee greedy people who run the show raise the prices to make up for it. We just cant win until the rich people drive us all into another depression!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:33 PM Alternative Advocate wrote ...
Do you believe me now? The ONLY answer to high gas prices is no gas, period. Hydrogen power is the only valid alternative - not diesel, not ethanol blends, not even pure ethanol (which would raise food prices to absurdly high levels, in case you haven't bought any beef or chicken or bread lately). Hydrogen fuel cells are the only answer, and the sooner you start telling Dave Loebsack and Chuck Grassley and Tom Harkin that the sooner we'll have both affordable fuel and energy independence.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:25 PM Its sad wrote ...
Its sad, but the only way anything seems to get done in Washington is if their is a direct consequence to them. They have no clue what people are struggling with and probably haven't filled up their own tank of gas in years. Probably the only way anything will change is if a million people with torches goto our leaders and demand something be done. It worked back in the 60's, I would expect it would work now.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:24 PM this isn't california wrote ...
Wayne, i am sure cost of living in california is higher than in Iowa. while the gas might have been 4.00 a gallon in 2000, does a person working in California, lets say at Target make more than a person who works at a Target here in Iowa?
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:24 PM PM wrote ...
TDK, that isn't true. the Gas Price wont drop as we use less b/c we have used less in the last year and it has increased.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:19 PM duh wrote ...
how about stopping all of this enviromental whining and drilling for oil in our own country!!!!!we havent built a new refinery in this country in 25 years because of enviromental restrictions
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 3:49 PM Luke Finley wrote ...
Anybody think it's sad that if the oil companies would just accept a lousy $60 billion dollars instead of $120 billion, we could be paying $1.25 per gallon instead of $3.50. The oil companies are greedy. The end. Global economics be damned, they always have a reason for higher prices. Until the government steps in and caps them off, only people with stakes in oil, like our fearless leader G.W., prices will continue to raise.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 3:27 PM Clear wrote ...
To clear this all up. Cost of living doubles every 10 years, it's called progress. It's not anything new, and it's not just gas that's effected. It's called life. Get over it.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 2:56 PM Stop complaining and do what you can persoanlly wrote ...
1. Stop building new homes on resourceful land that could be used for farm land. 2. Stop living in huge houses just for status. 3. Stop driving around in the gas hogs to run erronds, or just to show off. 4. Those that waste their money on cigarettes and beer before buying gas, uh duh no wonder your broke. 5. Two drivers that drive far away in opposite directions move within walking distance of the one job and go to one economical vehicle for the other to drive. We do it's worked for 3 years
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 2:50 PM LAW wrote ...
SOME OF US CAN ONLY AFFORD ONE VEHICLE SO WE HAVE TO BUY SOMETHING THAT CAN BE USED IN A VARITIY OF WAYS. ALSO WHEN YOU WORK WEIRED HOURS NOBODY CAN RIDE WITH YOU. I DRIVE TO WORK AND HOME AND LIMIT MY OTHER ACTIVITIES. PLUS IF WE DRIVE LESS THE OIL COMPANYS WILL RAISE THE PRICE SO AS NOT TO LOSE ANY PROFITS. ITS A NO WIN. LOWER GAS PRICES AND I MIGHT BE ABLE TO SPEND MORE AND THEN STIMULATE THE ECONOMY
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 2:29 PM PK wrote ...
Something can be done about this, but it just isn't being done. Those making money are making more than they should. We heard a while back of this being looked at, and we didn't hear any more. Our government needs to do it's job where it matters and get it done. They cut important things and spend on things that don't help where we need it.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:24 PM don wrote ...
check and see who are some of the big domers
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:22 PM Same Gas wrote ...
We're paying triple for gas what it cost only a few years ago, but the gas doesn't work any better or take us 3 times as far as it did in 2004. There is no other product on the market that can triple in price with no change in quality. Instead of tax breaks, oil companies should pay tax rates that increase commensurate with higher profits, the way individuals have higher tax brackets for higher incomes.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:14 PM Anonymous wrote ...
well California does a lot of things we don't do here Wayne, your here for some reason.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:08 PM anon wrote ...
Exactly... who is in charge? I agree with the sentiment that something needs to be done but how do we, the average citizen, go about it? Do we contact our local/state reps? What do we ask for? Regulations on oil companies? Better regulations for vehicles? Better public transportation? My point is I would like to take action instead of merely complaining but I honestly wouldn't know where to realistically start. Any thoughts?
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:40 PM Dear when will we be walking, wrote ...
Dear When Will We Be Walking, Get a job! Income really is an advantage and you'll find it really takes the presure off.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:38 PM Wayne wrote ...
Is this really an issue? I paid the same price for gas in California in 2000. In my opinion, it should be more expensive. We should be happy it's as low as it is.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:04 PM sick and tired wrote ...
i wish we could get more ethonol at the pumps i,m tired of making the oil producing nations of this world rich!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:58 AM ken wrote ...
Get use to it and stop complaining.Thats all that going to happen from now on .Higher prices . Get use to it.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:46 AM J.J. wrote ...
The high gas/oil prices are here to stay. The main reason for the reacent run in oil futers is tied to global economics and the falling value of the dollar. Oil futers are traded in US Dollars, so as the Dollar's value falls oil becomes cheaper for foreign investors, it also brings more US investors into the market becuase they use oil/gold/silver and other futers as a hedge aginst inflation and the falling dollar value. For relife of high gas/oil prices we need a much stronger dollar.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:41 AM Anonymous wrote ...
REMEMBER ALL THIS WHEN ITS TIME TO VOTE AND I HOPE ALL WHO VOTED FOR BUSH TO RUN OUR COUNTRY INTO THE POOR HOUSE ARE HAPPY. OUR MONEY IS RUNNING ANOTHER COUNTRY AND TO HECK WITH US WHO HAVE TO PAY FOR IT.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:29 AM rickman454 wrote ...
It seems that some of you really need to take a macro-economics course. Oil is priced in US dollars. When the dollar is weak, foreign suppliers must raise the price (via oil markets) in order to make the same amount of profit. For example, $100.00 oil has 30-40% dollar-deflation added in. If the dollar was worth what it was five-years ago, then oil would be $50.00-$70.00 per barrel.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:26 AM Would like to bike wrote ...
We need better access for bicycling around the city. I think more people would bicycle if it was safer on the roads to do so.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:24 AM Anonymous wrote ...
One of the problems is the lack of mass transportation. Everything in this country is so spread out. One can go almost anywhere in Europe or parts of Asia on a train. People in Europe are astonished to know how many vehicles some American families own and drive daily. Small cars are fine for those who can fit. Families with more than 4 or 5 need larger vehicles. Especially with all the seatbelt laws. Gone are the days of packing 15 people in a Honda Civic to go to town.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:09 AM Too High? wrote ...
I spend $3.00 on an energy drink on my way to work everyday, and that's only one can. If you convert my 8 ounce can to gallons, that means I'm spending $48 a gallon for energy drinks...and I'll drink em ALL DAY LONG BABY! Come on people, $3 is cheap, take your medication, it'll be ok.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 11:04 AM research, ask questions wrote ...
If anyone wants to see what the market is doing on gas and oil, go nymex.com/index.aspx The supplier price changes happen at 6pm mon-fri at the local pipeline. Watch the market and your gas station, if the price jumps 10 cents and they recieved their load before 6pm ask why, call their supplier and see why they put that cents a gallon in their pocket
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:44 AM Anonymous wrote ...
I want to know why it goes up 20 cents in like a 2 or 3 hour time span one morning, but then when oil retreats from record prices, gas only drops 2 cents over that same dollar or two for the barrell. Its total bull. I'm all for wildlife and nature preserves, but you all realize they say there is more oil under Alaska than in many of the Mid-East "big oil" countries. Refineries and drilling can be done cleanly and safely in the 21st century...maybe its time to explore other places.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:43 AM Mike wrote ...
Bush might not have anything to do with it but, if it were the other way around he sure would take credit for it! so I blame him.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:40 AM Dan wrote ...
The alaskan reserve is conservatively estimated to supply the US for 10 years... Some Experts think it could last past 30 years. You all want to complain yet nobody wants to drill.. lvl oil supply international demand going up = Higher prices. Blame Asia...
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:38 AM Chris wrote ...
I live in Tipton and drive to CR daily for work. Bought an older Festiva that gets 40 mpg to make that less painfull but I know not everybody can do that. Im sick of this just like everyone eles. Only thing is Im done whinning and complaining. Forcing the gas prices down is the next step and since the gov. cant or wont step in that means we the people have to do it. I agree with Tbone1, I think its an idea. Take our country back from the big corps and gov.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:37 AM Hey Miel wrote ...
Hey Miell, do the research, our economy is alive and well, much better off than what it's been in at least the past decade. Just because you cant afford to put gas in your car doenst mean we're all struggling.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:30 AM WOW! wrote ...
I drive a ford explorer that gets 22-26 mpg and I only fill it up every two weeks so don't blame me for gas prices-nobody ever says anything about the stock car races or nascar or the airlines. Do you think they burn water-stop blaming suvs and trucks get rid of racing and fill them planes with people before flying them-what about all the cars following the gov officials around do they need that many-get off my back about my suv I can't afford to get a smaller car,STOP THE RACES!!!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:21 AM Ivan wrote ...
I paid $3.29 a gallon last night in Evansdale, and my brother Mike paid $3.22 in Des Moines last night. Does it cost that much more to do business in CR?? Our taxes are already high enough.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:18 AM Paul wrote ...
And instead of working on the real problems like this, we get a smoking ban on bars...Nice.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 10:11 AM Concerned citizen wrote ...
What are we to do about everything going up in price? You can't live making $10.00 an hour, pay bills, mortgage, daycare, etc. I sure, just like everyone else, my family and I haven't done anything "fun" in a long time because our hard earned money goes to the above. It's obivious that some CEO's wife (girlfriend) needs some sort of plastic surgery. What else could be the explination?!!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:18 AM Miell wrote ...
Im so glad our government thinks spending billions of dollars a month overseas is better than helping out our struggling economy. also im glad paying these rediculous prices for gas im able to put a couple extra dollars in the ceo's of the big oil companies because they really need it........
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:18 AM Anonymous wrote ...
the same thing happened after 9/11 and no one was held accountable for the price gouging they did then, when I did resurch at UNI I found that nearly 75% of gasoline and alcohol prices were hidden taxes already applied to the price! this is sickening!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:14 AM Anonymous wrote ...
I think I'll just buy a horse and ride it. Maybe we all should. We'll have to install hitching posts outside buildings.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:10 AM Anonymous wrote ...
Most likely in the near future, it won't be the United States going after the Arab countries for oil. It will be Russia and China who are both in the process of gearing up their militaries. Think US was tough to deal with? They will think we were pretty nice.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:08 AM Anonymous wrote ...
It's hard to drive less when you commute from Cedar Rapids to UNI for class. What is a college student (married and rooted in CR by the way) supposed to do to keep from going under financially while trying to get an education? We need real solutions for real people that put the responsibility on oil companies and on the government that isn't doing squat about it.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:06 AM Tbone1 wrote ...
Perhaps I am alone in this thought: There are several key ingredients in place (oil prices being only one)that could lead to the United States to becoming the next third world country. When the middle class is pushed out and the economic structure consists of super rich and super poor only, civil war is not far behind. Radical? Maybe....Possible? Absolutely.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:04 AM Annoyed wrote ...
I blame it on multiple people. First off all the oil companies, because they are the ones raising the prices. Secondly the government, because they have turned down so many different patents, when it comes to different sources of fuel or energy for vehicles, and then finally. All the idiots out there who drive Hummers, because we all know how much they suck when it comes to gas mileage.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:04 AM terry wrote ...
Any one out there that is interested in car pooling up to Monticello every morning? We can all complain about it, but when we have an oilman in the white house, they are not going to fix the leak.They say that $4 a gallon by this summer. Where will all this end? The oil companies are getting richer and the public is paying for it, we have no choice at this point.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:00 AM There it is... wrote ...
Its a shame...They say they are helping by upping min wage. What about Government assistance they dont up that. Maybe they want us to be like Asia and ride bikes everywhere we go. I wounder what the prices will look like 5-10years from now. Holy cow!!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 9:00 AM TDK wrote ...
We will see $4/gallon soon, guaranteed. When everybody quits driving full size 4x4 trucks, SUV's and minivans we will use alot less fuel, when the demand drops the price will drop. Yes, I own a truck, I use it only when needed, not for joy riding and driving to work. My drive to work car is 14 years old, 180,000mi gets 30 mpg and carries me and my wife to work. I laugh at all the gas hogs.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:53 AM Boycott One Company wrote ...
Having a national "don't buy gas day" (an idea previously going around) won't work. Everyone should stop buying gas from one company, and they will lower prices. Any ideas on what company to boycott???
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:37 AM Start Walking wrote ...
I heard it will be over $4.00 by June. A friend of mines husband works for Hy-Vee whom deals with the trucks bringing in shipments of items, and he has already had to pay them through July. Not all were deisel trucks yet he was still paying over $4.00 a gallon for them.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:36 AM Amy M. Dubuque wrote ...
A couple of months ago they were saying we drive too much. When people quit driving prices will go down. Then a month ago I heard them say people are not driving enough and that is why prices are going up. I think someone should make up their mind and just admit that it's all about the money they can make.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:31 AM JM wrote ...
Its Economic 101 people. Supply and Demand. The world's appetite for oil has gone up, but the supply has stayed relatively flat. Its not George Bush and its not Exxon. As China, India, and Russia modernize, it will get worse. They are causing more demand for oil, but so are 10 mpg SUVs and unnecessary driving.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:25 AM am wrote ...
When they raised the minimum wage where did you think the money would come from, stores would raise prices to cover it. I am so sick of people talking about gas prices...very few people need to drive huge suvs and trucks. But instead of you down sizing lets just destroy the enviroment looking for more oil. Who cares about our children's future.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 8:02 AM Some Guy wrote ...
DC, What does Bush have to do with any of this? I guess when people don't understand things it's easy to place blame.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:50 AM Guarantees wrote ...
Oil prices could go down tomorrow and we'll never see that raise in gas prices do the same drop. Someone has it built into their profits already. Bilking the American consumer. When will the consumer revolt already? I'm not buying.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:42 AM ridiculous wrote ...
I think the gas prices are ridiculous!! I don't think that you should have to spend $300 to fill up your semi-truck just on one fill up. Something needs to change. Yes we do need to drive less, but we can only do so much. I don't think gas needs to be anywhere near $4/gallon. People have other things they need to buy.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:26 AM election time wrote ...
good thing there is an election this year. look at the election a couple years ago, gas prices went down to almost $2.00 after a while hovering around $3.00. I don't know if the incumbents wanted us to think they were doing something about the prices for the elections. i just wish i lived close enough to work to bike....although with how non-paying attention CR drivers tend to be, that could be a death wish
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:26 AM Peter wrote ...
Take a look at Exxon, they'll probably have another record breaking quarter of having profits over 3 billion dollars, at our expense. Personally I'm driving alot less then I use too, mostly to work.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:18 AM Russ wrote ...
funny how just as soon as minimum wage went up so did everything else! They just want to keep poor people poor! and I dont see any senetors or even presidental candidates driving around in Mini Coopers! I have to drive 25 miles to work 5 days a week, even my 4 cylinder takes over $30 to fill it! Reagan deregulated gas and Bush is an oil man, we wont see it go anywhere but up.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 7:10 AM Anonymous wrote ...
And yet the oil companies report record profits every year. Of course the politicians are ok with this after being "persuaded" by the oil company lobbyists. How do you compete with legal bribery?
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:50 AM DC wrote ...
I blame it all on that worthless Bush
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:46 AM Concern wrote ...
The rich get richer the poor get poorer.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:23 AM joshtraci wrote ...
If this keeps going up some of us wont be able to afford to drive to work (this sucks)
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 6:15 AM Nickels and dimes wrote ...
I put gas in my car to drive to work and back, 25 miles one way. I don't drive any where else. Some months I'm struggling and use vacation because there is no money to put gas in the car to go to work. There is no one near me that I can ride with. I wish there were more bus routes!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 5:59 AM Anonymous wrote ...
I'm just wondering why the gas is always around 10cents cheaper in Waterloo and Des Moines than it is in Cedar Rapids? Every little bit counts up when you're filling a larger vehicle up!
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 5:53 AM Iowaparamed wrote ...
Here's a new idea.How bout get the government out of the gas industry all together. Eliminate the taxes on gas and you'd see almost a 50% reduction in the cost per gallon. Another thought would be to quit listening to the environuts, it's because of them that we aren't looking for our OWN new sources or building new refineries. It may not be PC, but it's common sense.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:56 AM alan cassidy wrote ...
perhaps it is time to nationalize the oil companies and stop this economic terrorism.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:35 AM I hope it goes to $10/gallon under Bush! wrote ...
Until this country figures out that we have a BIG problem, the average American will get nickeled and dimed to death. Jack the price WAY UP so we get serious about getting off foreign oil. Hang on for the ride....the price of gas is going far above $4/gallon!!! LOL
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 4:02 AM Rick T wrote ...
I understand that the state or federal government want to add a tax to the gas to help fix our roadways? If so why don't we make the big oil company's pay for it? I'm sure they are making a good profit! If we can't drive on our roads then we wouldn't buy as much gas and maybe they will get the idea that the public is tired of getting scalped! If they want us to keep buying there product they should be pitching in.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 2:43 AM face wrote ...
get the bigger picture here. for $3 you can drive from IC to CR....and for another $3 you can drive back. There is something weird though...when the price per barrel of oil goes up, gas shoots up the same day. But the reverse never happens. Cant tell me that there aint something very shady goin on here.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:45 AM TD wrote ...
While we probably don't all need to resort to bicycles and itty-bitty clown cars, we sure could use a bit of common sense. Sit and watch any area road for just a few minutes and notice what you see. The roads are full of full size 4 door 4x4 trucks, monster SUV's and minivans, most of them hauling only 1 or 2 people. Wise up people, most of you have no reason to be driving these gas sucing land-yachts. When we cut our use the price will drop.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 1:34 AM annon wrote ...
gas prices have got so high i make minimum wage and i cant servive i have to take care of a child pay bills and pay this much for gas its killing me i dont make enough thanx to the government thank you for making my life hell hey what happens when people who make minimum wage loses there jobs cuz of gas prices then wheres the economy gonna be.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:24 AM Brooke wrote ...
I will never get used to $4/gal gas. Ridiculous. People should lose their jobs over this.
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:18 AM Randy wrote ...
The goverment can't figure that fuel price's is what regulate's the economy,come on we all need to stand and fight this one.A 600.00 tax rebate is going to fix the problem? we all know better then that.Fuel price's need to go down and you can bet the economy would turn around very quickly. Frustrated
Flag for moderationFriday, Apr 18 at 12:00 AM Ben wrote ...
Sure glad our government is wasting all that gas and oir on the vehicles in Iraq...what a world we live in today :(
Flag for moderationThursday, Apr 17 at 11:49 PM Okay wrote ...
We are supposed to have plenty of oil on American soil, but can't have it because of tree huggers. I parked my diesel and ride my bike whenever. How come NO candidates have said one word about gasoline??
Flag for moderationThursday, Apr 17 at 11:22 PM Shannon wrote ...
I'm just kicking myself for not getting $3.27 gas at the Short Stop at Blairs Ferry today when everyone else was $3.45 this morning. This is just ridiculous.
Flag for moderationThursday, Apr 17 at 10:42 PM When will we be all WALKING?? wrote ...
How much more can the middle and low income classes take. Gas is high, food is high, milk and eggs are going higher...and OH BOY we are going to get a tax kick back in May. Just enough to probably make a dent in the credit card bills for the gas we already can't afford and have to charge. WHO IS IN CHARGE??? The oil companies are making hoardes of money and yet our government and president can't seem to help us.
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