We're Hooked On Cheap Gas
Harry Smith: Americans Complain As Gas Prices Soar
-
Play CBS Video Video Florida Feels Gas Price Pain Before heading to Georgia on her five-day "Eye On The Road" tour, Sharyn Alfonsi saw firsthand how gas prices are affecting people in Florida, especially the elderly and those who take care of them.
-
Video Eye On The Road: On To Georgia Sharyn Alfonsi's next destination on CBS News' "Eye On The Road" tour is Sylvania, Ga., where the correspondent will see how soaring gas prices are affecting farmers in the area.
-
Video Eye On The Road Sharyn Alfonsi set off on a 1,500-mile road trip that will take her from Florida to New England, and she'll stop along the way to find out how people are dealing with soaring gas prices.
-
(AP / CBS)
-
Interactive Gas Prices State-by-state averages, tips to improve mileage and a look at what fuels prices at the pump.
-
Interactive Oil and Gas:
Fossil FuelsLearn more about energy costs and usage in your state and get the latest prices for gasoline.
Let's face it: Americans have been spoiled by low gas prices. The president said it himself: We're addicted. So when the junkie has to pay more for a fix, what happens is not good.
Looking at the latest CBS News polling data tells quite a story. When asked if the government is doing all it can to keep prices down, 87 percent said no. 87 percent.
How about the president's handling of gas prices? Seventy-four percent disapprove. Finally, when asked if the Bush administration is doing a good job keeping prices down, 82 percent say no.
If you believe that it's your God-given right to get cheap gas, then this current price spike is probably testing your faith. There seems to be no end in sight. Some analysts say the price of a barrel of oil could go up another $10 or $20.
But wait. The unintended consequence of the price spike is that consumption, which always goes up, is actually flat. And guess what: If we use less, it will cost less.
Harry's daily commentary can be heard on many CBS Radio News affiliates across the country.
©MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.
