July 2, 2008
Posted: 12:00 PM ET

From
A new poll suggests Americans are staying home this July 4.
A new poll suggests Americans are staying home this July 4.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — Many Americans will watch fireworks at home instead of hitting the road this July 4, according to a new poll released Wednesday, as record gasoline prices force people to make major changes in their daily lives.

According to a CNN/Opinion Research poll, 31% of Americans have canceled or shortened their planned holiday weekend vacation because of the recent increase in the price of gas.

"When consumers talk about their thinning wallets, high fuel expenses is the reason they would point to first," said Wachovia economist Tim Quinlan.

The average price of a gallon of gas rose to an all-time high above $4.09 a gallon Wednesday, according to a survey from motorist group AAA. Gas prices are now about 3% higher than last month and 38.5% higher than year-ago levels.

Full story

Filed under: Polls


Jessica   July 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Ok- everyone can agree that the price of gas sucks. And most of us could agree that we are not GW fans. However, you people that believe he controls the entire universe and and blame EVERYTHING on him are just crazy. He doesnt have half as much power as you guys accuse him of.

Mark   July 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

After Obama is elected, and gas prices continue to climb, are his supporters going to come back to this blog and explain why the gas prices are still rising? you know, considering its all Bush's fault that gas prices are this high. Then again, Obama being the Messiah and all, maybe he'll just turn water into gasoline for us all, right after he walks on it. fools

CLINTON 08 VP   July 2nd, 2008 4:26 pm ET

UNITED WE'RE STRONGER

OBAMA (P) & CLINTON (VP) 2008-2014

NO TO "BUSH II" (MCCAIN) OR "BUSH JR.", MR. WAR, MR. DEATH, MR. NO BRAINS, MR. I BUMP MY HEAD A LOT

gary   July 2nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

YOU THINK GAS IS HIGH NOW , O.B. WILL HAVE IT WORST. YOU THINK YOU ARE GETTING CHANGE FOR THE BETTER. THATS A BIG JOKE LIKE O.B. WE WILL BE IN WORST DISTRUCTION. AMERICA GETS WHAT THEY ASK FOR.

DJ, LA, CA   July 2nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Good take by Donna…if blame goes to anyone it would definitely be Dick Cheney and his secretive, behind closed door meetings.

Only once did he meet with executives from renewable energy companies and meet with oil/gas executives 40 times. Of course he still cites executive privledges to keep the list of attendees a secret. Does it get any more corrupt than that?

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   July 2nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Marc PDX….

RIGHT AT THIS VERY MOMENT… the oil companies have leases for MILLIONS of acres…. wait for it….. THAT THEY ARE NOT DRILLING

They can drill those areas.. (areas where proven reserves are, righ there on American soil)…..

i DARE you to address this……

i DARE you to ask the WHY they areen't using the leases THEY HAVE

Debby   July 2nd, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Yep and everyone laughed at McCain and Hillary's proposal for a little gas tax relief this summer. Where are these dissed economists now that said it wouldn't work. I see they haven't come up with a solution either.

Carl from MI   July 2nd, 2008 3:52 pm ET

It's the Fourth of July… a day to be PATRIOTIC. I consider it my patriotic duty NOT to support BIG OIL and the rape of the US public. It's time to draw the line. If Big Oil isn't with the US Public, then they're against us… (Bush and the NeoCons used that logic, so I figure it can work for us too!!)

Texas Liberal   July 2nd, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Those who blame the high oil prices on government regulations are naive. Laws may prevent some drilling in pristine wildernesses, but oil companies are sitting on lots of oil leases and not drilling? Why not? Wrong question.

Why should they? So they can sell product cheaper to you and me? I don't think so. They will drill in time, when the price is higher.

Jimmy Carter tried to take swift action to save oil by reducing speed limits and mandating higher mileage for American cars. American voters showed him a thing or two by electing a harmless old duffer to replace him.

What actions have the oil companies taken to help the world out? Zip.

Pete   July 2nd, 2008 3:40 pm ET

In 1973 we has gas crisis and people still drove gas gazlers. People were talking about alternate energy and nothing happen. People love their convinience and nothing else mattered. Now we have another energy crisis and it hit us bad. Prices of everything is going up. Because of crisis people had to find a scape coat. They are pointing fingers ar president. He is guilty almost everyone says. Lets review. From 1973 until now we did not learn any lessons. Many of us are driving USS bad mobile and are consuming plenty of gas. What would happen if we started conserving energy then and continued until now. Would prices be this high? What about if many of us would change our life styles and got involved in the carpools, where possible use public transportation, simply refuse to fill up our fuel tanks once or twice per week, what about drive when need not when it suits me, could you save a gas, etc. Are we finally ready to use sun, nuclear, and wind energy when we can. How many of us are willing to convert to different energy.
Some smart person use to say; Before you point fingers at someone, look at yourself first. If you think that politicians democrats or repuclicans will help you, you are on the wrong track. They will first help themselves to your cash anyway they can.

Flat-earther, Georgia   July 2nd, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Everything is wonderful. I am going to celebrate as I always have. A few dollars more for fuel is no big deal. GWB is the best POTUS we have ever had.

Montana is Obama Country   July 2nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

The co-host of a recent top-dollar fundraiser for Sen. John McCain oversaw the payment of roughly $1.7 million to a Colombian paramilitary group that is today designated a terrorist organization by the United States.

Willow, from Iowa   July 2nd, 2008 3:30 pm ET

I'm going to watch the fireworks from my screened in porch. I live 2 blocks from the fireworks. Drink my iced tea, no mosquitos, no crowds.

D, Carson   July 2nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

I'm celebrating the fact that these are the last months we'll have a moron in the White House.

Better gas milage tips - Sujith, NE   July 2nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

I follow hypermiling tips to save gas.I get almost 38.5 off my bimmer.Just go real easy on the pedal.average 65.coast to stop lights.
take off all the extra luggage from the trunk.no jack rabbit starts.
Have a great 4th and hope that next time around things are better!

Obama 08 !

Lynn   July 2nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

To Gas Should be $10.00 a Gallon - Are you one of the paid Obama workers.

Donna in ID   July 2nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

To bad no one has the guts to get us out from under this mess and quit letting the oil countries and companies rule the world. Stop and thnk of the control they have in your life. Lets gt rid of a BUNCH of this ecology junk and people and thinking and start drilling any place we can. NOW!!!! You think for a min that wouln't get everyones attention. Even if prices just stabled for now it would show these people we have changed the last plans in our lives to bow down to their control. GET ON THE "LETS START DRILLING " BANDWAGON. So we don't end up a 3rd world country under the thumbs of the oil regemes. It sure would also put a lot of people to work and boost our economy. Time to make your voices heard.

john 'keating five' mccain   July 2nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

"the answer to gas prices and a terrible economy? get a second job." this inspiring message of hope and positivity has been brought to you by John "Keating Five" McCain.

Bob   July 2nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

"When consumers talk about their thinning wallets, high fuel expenses is the reason they would point to first," said Wachovia economist Tim Quinlan.

Hmmm,, That's because they don't read too much. Wachovia experts are expert at defrauding the seniors and ill-informed in this country! If I ever find myself agreeing with a mega-bank, I'll take a course in ethics to regain my sense of decency. Crime doesn't pay?? Not if you're a bank exec winning big and getting fined little!

Ariana   July 2nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

DC is right up the street from me, but I'd rather stay home :)

Debbie,Ewing,Nj   July 2nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

McCain Voter. Here is a suggestion for the stupids: Why don't you stop buying those monstrously huge SUV's and start driving something a little more fuel efficent? Do you really need a 3 ton SUV to go buy groceries?
**************************************************************************** I guess you can't afford an SUV. You are the stupid one. Your IQ probably isn't even 50. Getting rid of SUV's will not drop the prices. They'll just be more gas for everybody. The prices will stay the same as long as the crooks who are price guauging and the greedy speculators are out there.

Ian   July 2nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

In 1964 a gallon of gas would cost about 30 cents per gallon. In 1964 (and earlier) a quarter contained about 90% silver. It took about 5 quarters to get an ounce of silver. Today silver goes for about $18.35 an ounce. Each quarter from 1964 and earlier should then be worth about $3.67 ($18.35 / 5). Today, gas is about $4.20 per gallon.

If our dollar were still backed by silver, gas would only cost a little over a quarter ($4.20 / $3.67).

I can only think of one presidential candidate that has addressed this problem, and it's not McCain or Obama.

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 2nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Americans don't need low gas prices.
We don't need a vacation!
We don't even need house.
Vote for McBush!
It will get better.

Your logic is bad   July 2nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Dexter, KY July 2nd, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Barack is looking better and better. For the first time in 15 years we will not be vacationing at our regular place. Gas is too expensive. I heard GW say things were improving because Americans are changing their habits. He's a moron–things are getting worse because Americans are changing their habits.

The election can't come soon enough for me. I can't wait to vote for Barack Obama.

"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""`

How do you and others equate rising fuel prices to a vote for Obama? What short-term help is he proposing? Nothing, huh? All he says is "find and use alternative energy sources", which are years and years away. Not to mention, the market is and has been working on this. Stop buying stuff if you don't like companies making money. Trust me, you're getting ripped off more by your phone company than you are by "big oil".

theprogressivebigot   July 2nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

GREAT! FANTASTIC!!

Just imagine all the good things that are going to come out of poor people no longer being able to drive their cars. In fact, I can already see its effects on the traffic during my late morning drives to work.

Donna   July 2nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I think that Vice President Cheney's Energy Task Force meeting is responsible for the fuel crisis in the USA. This is one of the reasons why he won't release the records, which he does not have the right to because it was paid for by the public's money, not from his own pocket.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 2nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The real reason gas is so high is the idiot "Decider" and his gang of fiscal fools have let the dollar slide for 8 years. It takes more of them to buy oil, especially when speculators are betting on oil to hit $200 a barrel. During the Weimar Republic in Germany between WWI and WWII, it took a wheelbarrel of deutchesmarks to buy a loaf of bread. Look it up and cry for what Bush has done to the American Dream…

TESAP   July 2nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

MCCAIN VOTER, A VOTE FOR MCCAIN TAKES YOUR IQ DOWN……… A VOTE FOR A MAN WHO IS IN LINE WITH THE MEN KILLING OUR ECONOMY, REWARDING THE RICH AND DEEPLY INVEDTED IN OIL……….. NOW THAT'S JUST PLAIN OLD STUPID……

I GUESS STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES……………. :)

BARACK WOULD HAVE THE ABILITY TO LOWER PRICES…. HOWEVER MCCAIN IS TOO FRIENDLY WITH………. HE WILL OWE THEM TO MANY FAVORS……..

tigerakabj   July 2nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Yep. Unfortunately, this is what it's gonna take for us to get off our oil dependency. If the prices go back down to $1.00 a gall, we will resume buying our gas-guzzlers, polluting too much, etc.

Alternative energy, here we come. Obama/Sebilius 2008/2012!

MJ   July 2nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Blame DUMB Bush

Blame DUMB Bush

Blame DUMB Bush

He is still spending a lot of money on war. McCane is another Bush.

Veteran in Kansas   July 2nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Drilling will not bring about lower oil prices. First off, it takes 10-15 years to develop a new field, that means that it they would open the area today we could expect to see oil from those fields between 2018 and 2023. Does nothing for the price of oil. Second problem is that the Oil Companies currently have thousands of acres under lease that they can explore and develop, which natuarlly they have not, so currently what we are wittnessing is an attempt at a major land grab by Oil while they control the White House. But then of course the major drain is a result of oil being purcahased with dollars which out current administration has made into worthless currency.

Susan the answer is simple, two Texas Oil Men sitting in the White House.

Mike   July 2nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Well maybe we can sit at home and watch the crazy one Bomb Iran with some more shock and awe. Then we can see ten dollar a gallon gas.

Justmyopinion2008   July 2nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

That is wonderful because when the deman of gas in US drops drastically, it will in turn influence both speculations and gas price. I would as well propose that families/individuals plan their weekly shoppings (a weekly shopping list) and do it once a week, instead of travelling several times per week, and one would both save gas money and only buy things the family/one needs. Big bucks to be saved if one can sit down and figure out those stuff that the family/one needs for the week! Why not try to cook more at home, it is both more healthy and lots of money to save.
Show the oil companies and the speculators that you cannot be their slaves! Good luck folks!

Snail   July 2nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Whether we celebrate at home or 1000 miles away, let us not forget what we are celebrating. Freedom. Freedom of our unalienable rights: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. No other country has the freedoms, opportunities and blessings our country has had since it's founding. Yes, gas prices have caused us to curtail our driving. Yes, food prices are escalating. Yes, we have been hammered with hurricanes, tornados, floods, fires and many other calamities, but we are still in America, the best nation in the world! Let us count our blessings as we celebrate our beloved home of the free and the brave!

Karen   July 2nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Unprecendented road repair with no viable detours provided, combined with high gas prices, mean that many of us in the Twin Cities will stay home, hoping for a glimpse of the fireworks our taxes paid for. I can't remember a more grim fourth of July–economy tanking, unpopular, costly, and unnecessary war, and two presidential candidates more anxious to court voters than to provide a roadmap out of this mess. Can democracy and capitalism co-exist?

Maxine   July 2nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I wish it was $4.09-I am paying $4.79 in California-drive 80 miles round trip to work. What do I do???? Carpool, stay home and shop for groceries once a month-live 20 miles from nearest store. Budget cuts are happening in the state and a lot of us are worried about our jobs. A loaf of bread at a supermarket was $5.00……Keep it up we all might be homeless.

Chris   July 2nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Stop blaming political parties, companies, and foreign countries for gas prices. You don't like it? Drive less. Drive fuel efficient cars (not pick-ups and SUV's). Obese America can walk or bike to their locations instead of always driving. Carpool. Be innovative instead of whining, and let pure market economics run its course.

We need a comprehensive, long-term energy plan. Simple. Let's harness nuclear power. Let's drill where there is oil in the US. Those two plans would allow the country to be its own master of energy rather than having others determine your energy costs.

On_fiayah   July 2nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Hell, not only is gas too high but for a gallon of milk I'll have to give away one of my children. $5.50 is too much to feed a household. This is unfair. At least let my paycheck reflect the gas cost and the milk inflation. America, where are you now for me? I just ask this question, I love America, but does America love me?

Laurie-SF   July 2nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

And the Dumocraps want to raise gas taxes and prohibit all exploration. High gas prices have been a Dumacrap dream since the days of Jimmy Carter to encourage conservation. Obama wants to spend billions hoping to find new "clean" sources of energy, and then force everyone to get rid of their cars. Until then (maybe 10 years, maybe 20 years, maybe never) the Dumocraps want you to get used to high gas prices, no exploration, no refineries, no energy. NIMBY. LOL Democrat trolls.

Mark   July 2nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

The fact that so many Obama supporters think that evil Republicans are the reason gas prices are so high is very telling. It proves these people really are ignorant of how the world works and explains why they support someone like Barack Obama.

you folks might want to google India and China

Gal From D   July 2nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

To: Fella from Chicago:

Thanks, I'd rather ride on "Obama's hot air", than swim in GW's blood for oil.

DJ, LA, CA   July 2nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

If this continues…the government should nationalize distribution of gasoline including the refineries and tightly regulate markets, capacity and speculators. Only the U.S. and Britain have "free markets" which let speculators drive up the prices. Other markets overseas regulate it, but the GOP thinks regulation is bad so we don't as a result.

Tom   July 2nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

McCain nor Obama, Congress nor state legislators, drilling in Alaska or offshore will NOT save us this time. The notion that 31% of Americans can't afford to take a driving vacation is exactly what we need. Forced conservation to reduce demand is critical.

The key will be to prevent global oil robber barons from taking the surplus we accumulate and shipping it to China or India thereby artificially reducing supply, repositioning inventory and keeping prices high. This is what has been happening and what needs to be stopped. If they are allowed to do it they will. Exxon, Dutch Shell, BP will sell our newly created surplus to CNPC in a heartbeat. CNPC already spends hundreds of billions acquiring supply from everywhere US companies do.

McBushed   July 2nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Dear McCain Voter,

If you are voting for McCain, then you really shouldn't talk about IQs.

someone   July 2nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

man all everyone has to do is vote for obama and people will be saving hundreds of dollars

Mike - Texas   July 2nd, 2008 2:15 pm ET

.
Hey……Gas Should Be $10 A Gallon

You sound like you must be a democRAT

Dave   July 2nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Gas prices are to high, food prices are to high, I am quiting the world. Take it easy my friends, have a good one!

b Jiggy   July 2nd, 2008 2:13 pm ET

y do people claim Obama is a racist? He's half black and half white…who is he racist against? U gotta be kidding me if u say he's racist against whites, such as his mother.

:)

Mike - Texas   July 2nd, 2008 2:10 pm ET

.
If the democRATs would let us build refineries and drill for oil where we know oil exists then we wouldn't be in this predicament.

There are even some democRATs working to add another 28 - 54 cent tax to the gallon of gas that you already buy.

And there are others in Montana working to get a grouse on the endangered spiecies list that will shut down yet another oil field.

Thank you DemocRATs for HIGH oil prices.

Crush Rush   July 2nd, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Fun, would be to tie a Republican to each of the rockets we set off for the 4th.

Watermann   July 2nd, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Fellow Americans, just take a few minutes of your time. Look at a globe or a map and consider the geological situation (oil and raw materials) around Iraq. What do you see? Iraq and Afghanistan as two giant aircraft carriers in the middle east, surrounded by a lot of countries names of which ending with ….an…..stan? It is like being in a big supermarket packed with all those nice little things America and the West need. Do you think someone in our countries, US and Europe, is going to risk social turmoil if the gas price is reaching $ 10-15 a gallon. Just for your information, a gallon of gas in Germany is approximately $ 7. Any more questions?

Dan   July 2nd, 2008 2:04 pm ET

This is our country and we should celebrate the 4th in the best way we know how. The country is still the greatest on earth. So spend the day with your families and remember this, we will be free to vote for a better America on November 4th.

We're Americans, don't forget it.

TESAP   July 2nd, 2008 2:03 pm ET

SAM I LOVE……………. PUT THAT ON A T-SHIRT…………

BARACK THE VOTE PEOPLE…………….. :)

Humm..   July 2nd, 2008 2:02 pm ET

To Happy 4 Dollar Gas Prices - we must not forget:

Good 4 nothing.

Have a Happy 4th

Linda in Va   July 2nd, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Nope I can't afford to venture anywhere this holiday but I would rather see us all pushing for other ways to remedy our energy demands. To heck with OIL, lets get rid of it. Demand that we get other sources to run our cars. New sources of energy are needed, not the old ones. I'm all for getting rid of oil completely. To bad greed isn't going to allow this to happen.

Susan   July 2nd, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Americans would like to know 'the real reason' gas has soared.

A little 'too fishy'.

Marc PDX   July 2nd, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Hussein… for those of you who have adopted Hussein as your new middle name… first, congratulations! Second, I'd suggest to some of you that you may want to learn how to spell it. For your benefit I have included the correct spelling above. You're welcome!

America   July 2nd, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Dear Gas Should Be $10 A Gallon:

You can't be a real American, but we will pray for your rotten soul.

Ron. Toronto Canada   July 2nd, 2008 1:56 pm ET

SCOTTY! Don't come too far north. In Canada the gas is over$5.20 a gollon.which is a cup full more than your gallon.

DJ, LA, CA   July 2nd, 2008 1:55 pm ET

$4??? Try almost $5 a gallon in CA. Please do not vote for the corrupt GOP who is blatantly in bed with the Big Oil lobby.

Honestly do Americans REALLY trust Big Oil back propaganda and support for GOP candidates to "fix" high prices? That's like trusting OPEC to keep prices low and supply high.

McCain voter   July 2nd, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Voting for Barack Obama automatically decreases your IQ 50 points.

Also, please explain to me how a vote for Obama will make gas prices go down. If you really think this, then I pity you.

Here is a suggestion for the stupids: Why don't you stop buying those monstrously huge SUV's and start driving something a little more fuel efficent? Do you really need a 3 ton SUV to go buy groceries?

Marc PDX   July 2nd, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Hey! I have an idea! Let's drill for gas on American property for a change! On second thought, nawwww, that doesn't make any sense because it makes too much sense. Let's just vote for Obama - he can fix anything. So he says….

BTW, drilling for oil ourselves will NOT bring down the cost of gas. It will only STOP the increases. But it's your call about what you want…

Change you can believe in (if you believe in fairies)…

OBAMA 08   July 2nd, 2008 1:54 pm ET

No one closed door meetings with the big "oil boys" MCCAIN!!!

Jonathan   July 2nd, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Everyone is pointing the finger at someone else. Maybe we should start blaming ourselves. Who on this forum has ACTUALLY done anything to reduce their dependence on oil??? It takes more than just writing a angry post on a CNN blog;)

question   July 2nd, 2008 1:52 pm ET

you silly people…it is congress who caused the gas problems…….for ten years they did nothing……now they say it will take ten more years to fixed the gas problem…….well if they did something ten years ago, we would be ten years later…. now…….so it looks like it will take congress another ten years to think about it……..ten years to fix it…….so by 2028..we should have cheap gas……by then we will not be needing it…..thats there plan….

William Ayers   July 2nd, 2008 1:52 pm ET

BTW, having an Obama '08 bumper sticker on your car gives you an extra 4 mpg and a smaller likelyhood of getting cut off by a Prius.

GO McCain!

Don   July 2nd, 2008 1:51 pm ET

surprise, surprise.

Gal from Dallas   July 2nd, 2008 1:50 pm ET

To: Fella from Chicago:

Thanks, I'd rather ride on "Obama's hot air", then swim in GW's blood for oil.

Crush Rush   July 2nd, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Scumbags like Limbaugh ,who feed off the stupidity of his dittoheads,will celebrate high off the hog.They are the most brainwashed bunch of morons I have ever seen.Now hes feeding them a new contract with Rush/America line saying the Liberals want to make him poor.He thinks Global warming is a farse made up by the left wing.

Red, White & Blue   July 2nd, 2008 1:45 pm ET

To the Red States:

Think about the red blood of the American soldiers who died for our country in an unnecessary war. Think about the white doves of peace that will never fly in a McCain administration. Think about the blue state of affairs GW has dragged this country through.
Red, white and blue should have another meaning for you at the ballot box this year.

Your country is counting on you.

One America–Barack Obama.

M   July 2nd, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I was against the gas tax holiday from the beginning. If they did have a gas tax holiday, how do you think people would react when the holiday was over? Or how would they react when their roads aren't being repaired? It is not a practical idea and at least one of the candidates was able to say so…
I believe the price of oil is being driven up by speculators, no matter what anyone says about supply and demand. If it was supply and demand the prices would not have shot up so fast. It would have been more gradual. This is speculation pure and simple. Blame the speculators on the price of gas and oil.
That said, Bush and Cheney need to get out of office. I don't think they are helping the situation at all.

carolflowery   July 2nd, 2008 1:40 pm ET

there's not one person in this whole world who can change the word
GREED, it's not a President, it's not anyone but greedy people
We need to drill here, we need to start now, and we need to invest in
all other programs period. I believe in Americans not Presidents

Chut Pata   July 2nd, 2008 1:39 pm ET

McCain should hope the oil mafia will make another multi-billion dollar profit from this artificial price increase, and then invest some money in his cash-strapped campaign. He needs to press hard on off-shore drilling (Oil for Beaches program) and Alaska drilling (Oil for Echo Screwup program).

Sam   July 2nd, 2008 1:38 pm ET

My gas tank may be low, but my IQ is high. I'm voting for Barack Obama.

Fella from Chicago   July 2nd, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Not to fear. Americans can still get around by riding the hot air that Obama exhales.

Smarter Voter   July 2nd, 2008 1:37 pm ET

How many elections will Americans allow the GOP to kick us in the teeth?

Vote smart, Obama 08.

Gas Should Be $10 A Gallon   July 2nd, 2008 1:37 pm ET

I want to see my fellow Americans suffer even greater hardship than merely missing out on a barbecue, beer and fireworks vacation. I want them to be hungry, cold, sick and angry - just as the poor of this nation have been - under the brutal dictatorship of the Bush-Cheney regime. I want to see Americans stripped of their civil liberties and forced into the streets to make war on each other in civil conflict against the NeoCon thugs. It's only fair that Americans who voted for the current government sacrifice their lives and fortunes after having participated in the ruination of the United States. This is why I am voting McSame. Revenge is sweet and a dish best served to those who are hungry and cold.

Preston, MI   July 2nd, 2008 1:36 pm ET

We were suckers—but not again.

Obama 08

MLG   July 2nd, 2008 1:35 pm ET

We can thank our CONGRESS for not letting us drill. They are the ones to blame. They say NO to everything because they do not care. That's why I'm voting McCain 08

Happy 4 Dollar Gas Prices   July 2nd, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Let's see, GW is great with 4s.

$4.00 plus a gallon for gasoline
4 thousand plus soldiers dead
4 plus 4 years of his miserable presidency

Happy 4th? I think not.

It takes sound judgement, not experience   July 2nd, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Thanks Repuglicans!! You guys are great! Happy Independence day!

CIE   July 2nd, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Blame thr Repub's…that is all you can think of. How about the Dem congress in the last two years when oil prices doubled and gas prices went thru the roof. What have they done on energy….NOTHING….

Good old Charlie Shummer's words of wisdom "blame it on opec". Congress will never make the tough choices as all they care about is saving their cushy jobs.

Blood For Oil   July 2nd, 2008 1:31 pm ET

First GW stole the 2000 election, and now he stole our way of life. The circle is complete, the oil men have won.

Michele Hussein, Oregon   July 2nd, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Dear Independent Voter: The stimulus checks far outweigh the amount anyone would have received from a "gas tax holiday". Obama supports a second round to help people just like yourself.

There is no quick change fix. Be patient, we are all in this together and will be better off with Obama in the White House.

Happy 4th to everyone! We have so much to be thankful for in spite of the hardships.

William Ayers   July 2nd, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Remember, gas was around $2 a gallon when Pelosi and friends came to power in Congress. Obama has said that he doesn't mind high gas prices, he just wanted a more gradual increase, what say you Obamanation? At least Bush and Mccain are OPEN to the idea of offshore drilling while exploring other possibilities.

Nevermind, blame Bush for everything.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 2nd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

WITH GAS PRICES NOW AT $4.09 A GALLON AND CONTINUING TO SOAR IS ALL THE REASON MORE NOT TO VOTE FOR JOHN MCCAIN DUE TO HIS LOUSY PANDERING GAS HOLIDAY PLAN. WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE REPUBLICANS OUT OF OFFICE.

Loretta from California   July 2nd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

@ gotcha

Greed!!!! It's always been about the greedy oil companies. The Saudi Royal family has increased supply, it hasn't done a bit of good, and I don't expect that it ever will.

I think I'll just sit back, have a BBQ , and enjoy being with my family on the 4th.

Happy 4th?   July 2nd, 2008 1:28 pm ET

What can you expect from a man who never had to pay for anything in his whole life. Daddy gave him everything and now he has taken away our freedoms. It's so, so sad. This man is a traitor to the country. Thanks GW for nothing, you moron.

Shawn T   July 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Independent Voter:

The so called economic stimulus package (read 'rebate check) actually DID help the economy. It DID drive up overall sales for the new quarter which cuased our consumer based economy to fare (slightly) better than intial predictions. W's fluke worked, thank God.

Mary   July 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

I'll be praying for the men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan this 4th of July. Don't celebrate one thing until you honor them.

Buster, NC   July 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

The thief in the White House stole our Constitution and our way of life. He is a lying scumbag who does not care about the American people or America.

Happy 4th? I think not.

Texans for Obama   July 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Thanks to Bush and company. We may all be staying home for many holidays to come. Go Obama. You will win this election by a landslide. Yes you will

Rayne, IO   July 2nd, 2008 1:23 pm ET

George Bush is the WORST PRESIDENT IN MODERN HISTORY.

Happy 4th–NOT.

s katz   July 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

If you have to drive, some tips to save gas.

Plan your route in advance. Sometimes it's better to travel slight monger distances if you can keep moving rather than stop and go, which really sucks up gas. Leave early so you don't have to race, and leave early enough to avoid congested roads.

Ensure your tires are inflated properly. Underinflated tires are a hazard as they are more likely to overheat, and that heat by way of friction is eating up your gasoline.

Take it easy on the accelerator. Pretend there's an egg under there, upshift as soon as possible, and don't tailgate, leave plenty of space in front of you to eliminate the need to slam on the brakes.

John B. From New Hampshire   July 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

ref to joshua's comment: obama will raise gas taxes. Where are you getting this info, or are you merely just guessing?!?!?!?! unsubstantiated comments like this are a major reason why PUMA PAC exists. Let's get real, stick with the facts, and fix the problem!!!

OBAMA '08

1paperclip   July 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Japan phone company pulls 'monkey' ad that hints at Obama
That article was too funny. Just goes to show you how super sensitive everyone is regarding blacks. It would be nice if only everyone was so sensitive regarding portraying typical white women. We were portrayed as being racist and that was not right to do either.

sherry for Obama   July 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Thank you bush and cheney

I will be watching my fireworks from the front porch

Good riddance to you both you have made your nest egg profitable before you leave the white house.

Dexter, KY   July 2nd, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Barack is looking better and better. For the first time in 15 years we will not be vacationing at our regular place. Gas is too expensive. I heard GW say things were improving because Americans are changing their habits. He's a moron–things are getting worse because Americans are changing their habits.

The election can't come soon enough for me. I can't wait to vote for Barack Obama.

Adam   July 2nd, 2008 1:13 pm ET

The housing market slump may suck, but it is gas that is killing us all right now. Gas effects EVERYTHING from the price of eggs to airline tickets. You can't get backfill delivered any more without a "fuel surcharge" added in. Gas prices are what will push the economy into a deep recession or save us from it (if they drop and drop soon).

Anita from Arizona   July 2nd, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Yeah we're staying home, too. Can't even grill a few steaks this years, too expensive. It's beans and weinies. Happy Independence Day Everyone.

Bains, TX   July 2nd, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Tick tock…when he the Moron in Chief leaving.

The 4th will be a lot happier when he's gone.

Thanks Republicans for giving America THE WORST PRESIDENT IN MODERN HISTORY.

CC   July 2nd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Let see how many ways we can rape the American people says George W Bush. Using mind control to control our emotions
this pathetic impotent jerk leaves a trail of misery like he did in Texas.
So will John McCain too.

Obama/Hillary 08   July 2nd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

I wonder if Joe Liberman is the one that is going to launches the new terror attack. Please stop scaring people for political reason. America, it is not true no terror attack in 2009. If there is one Joe Lieberman and the Republican Party is behind it.

Nellie, SC   July 2nd, 2008 1:05 pm ET

We'll have a better 4th of July next year with President Obama.

Obama 08

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   July 2nd, 2008 1:04 pm ET

It took 90+ years for oil to get to $28/barrel, including two years into "Jet-Pilot's" first term, and in the last 5 years it's gone up over $100/barrel?!?!?!?!?!

When an increase was attempted on Clinton's watch, he did something this administration would never think of doing - he called the involved parties together and talked!

Result - Clinton negotiated a $2/barrel decrese from $30/barrel to $28/barrel and opened the reserves.

Bush is alleged to be an oilman; of course, the first in history to be handed an oil-rich field, and he couldn't find any oil!

mitchell hussein martin   July 2nd, 2008 1:02 pm ET

as a show of protest,i will be staying home,too.on independence day,i refuse to give one red cent to big oil companies who are selling oil,diluted with the blood of our soldiers in iraq,while we celebrate our notion of freedom,that has become severely restricted ,due to the policies of the current administration.

Felines for Freedom   July 2nd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Maybe people should also stop sending their money up in smoke. I like fireworks as much as the next person, but there is no way I could justify buying them in this economy. It truly is burning your money.

gotcha   July 2nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I dont understand. There are fewer people on the highways, almost half as many, and the gas price is said to be about supply and demand. Seems there is less demand, what is the excuse now?

vjh   July 2nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Paid $4.44 for midgrade just yesterday: $64.70 total - OUCH !

Manny   July 2nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Well….we know who will be watching the fireworks from his balcony–George W. Bush. He's the moron who got us in this mess and those millions of people who voted for him were morons, too.

This will be the first 4th of July where gas prices are over 4 dollars. Happy 4th!

Franky   July 2nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

All I wanna say is that ALL states should legalize fireworks! Is bogus that some of our most beloved and cherished states can't blow fireworks!! I demand a re-count!!

And by the way, we've been blowing fireworks here since who knows.

I demand a re-count!! The states deserve their Independence, by the people and for the people…

John McCain   July 2nd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Why does the American public trust my wife, who looks like satan, more then Michelle Obama? Easy, because they are racist, ignorant, and stupid. Any other questions?

Sweetie   July 2nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Gas is too high just to get back and forth from work!

I know I'm not alone in almost reaching the point when I will become bankrupt!

We need some relief NOW!

McCain 08

Generation X   July 2nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Thank you Bush….I needed more family time. LOL

Upon Further Review,Texas   July 2nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

More toxic fumes to breath,as we celebrate the criminals we have in office now.

Sue in MI   July 2nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I have an idea-drop 10 minutes from each fireworks program and save everyone a bunch of money!

scotty   July 2nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

This is whaat they said on Memorial weekend also and I must say going up North I had never seen so many Large Campers hauling boats hauling there cars. they looked like parade floats. Have a great 4th

bridgette   July 2nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Look, America has changed and the reality of it is we have to adjust to this mess that the Republicans have gotten us into. Gas prices on down maybe it will force us to take stock in ourselves at buying all of these unnecessary nonsense that we didn't need. Who knows we may actually start back sitting down and eating dinner and watching television as a family again.

It takes sound judgement, not experience   July 2nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

We can't even think about a vacation, we're trying to make it to work. Thanks GWB for continuing to make the rich richer and the poor poorer. And john mcsame, thanks for backing him up with your votes (95% of the time), continuing on this course and keeping us regular folk down.

DD, New York   July 2nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I have a thought that somehow these rising (outrageous) gas prices are related to and are a prelude to a HUGE conflict with Iran. Has anybody else thought that?

Abby   July 2nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

We are all feeling the pain and will make use the republicans feel the pain come November.

Lynn   July 2nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

All of my family summer plans have been cancelled. With gas prices, food prices, utilities prices on the rise its becoming harder to make a living. I know some families who are just surviving.

AA   July 2nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

the gas prices are high because as usual the republicans use this to control the emotions (ie: mind control) during the elections. It is an old
gimmick that is getting older. Like George Bush said "lets think of all the ways we can hurt the American people", like all the people he excuted in Texas, he is making us all suffer. As will John McCain also if he takes office.

Levar HUSSIEN Patterson   July 2nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Heeeey…… I like gas prices the way there are now!!!!!! ThAT IS WHY I am voting for John McSame!!!!!

Independent Voter   July 2nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Quick. Check in BO - no doubt he has a brand new PROGRAM for this, too! He turned up his unfortunate nose to idea of knocking off the federal tax just for the summer, so he surely has a quick fix CHANGE we can all
BELIEVE IN.

You all were only to happy to get your Quick Fix checks for $600 to $1,200 and more. Talk about a waste of money on showmanship! We didn't hear a peep from BO about that one. A lot more money for a lot less CHANGE. Real solutions on this will be years in the making.

The irony is that, had the feds dropped the tax, states would have followed, and just a few months of hardly any tax would have kept a miliion small business truckers out of bankruptcy. A chance to raise prices, to renegotiate contracts. Thousands of jobs that had a chance of being saved.

But who cares about truckers-just give them another copy of the bible and a gun, and they're all set, right, BO?

saga4obama   July 2nd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

gas prices are becoming an issue of National Security. while Bush and his cronies are pointing their fingers and shrubbing their shoulders Americans are suffering, yes this also has a global impact as well with fuel prices increasing food prices.
i find it interesting though that EXXON and other oil companies have gotten no bid contracts in Iraq…war on terror?
who are the real terrorist? well, the answer might lead to the WH…i am terrorfied every time i fill up my tank.
may be the big oil lobbyist who are fueling the McCain campaign can offer some help…

Joshua   July 2nd, 2008 12:39 pm ET

America is suffering, and Obama wants to raise gas taxes.

Brilliant.

TESAP   July 2nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Exactly, and who can we thank for our gas prices, the Republicraps and the people that voted them in… NEWSFLASH… when you put two oil men togther BUSH&CHENEY what do you get……………….. HIGH OIL PRICES….. PAY ATTENTION PEOPLE, THEY ARE ON THEIR WAY OUT AND THE HIGHER GAS PRICES WILL HELP PAY FOR THEIR RETIREMENT………………………………. :)

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