You are correct my friend. Our elected politicians and family, many of whom are stock holders in oil companies, love the big dividend checks, love the increased value of the stock, love the extra tax revenue (no conflict in owning stock in an industry they regulate, nah)....As well, the oil companies are very happy not to drill more, build more refineries...why not, profits keep going up...The Saudis and the rest of the oil producers laugh all the way to the bank as they live the high life....Hey, who cares if the little guy is screwed at the pump...Our elected officials and their families are happy and the oil companies and their stock holders are happy, the Saudis and their friends are happy...whats not to like?
Trends that I have noticed. Slower driving, less outdoor lighting being used at night, carpooling is in vogue.
Also, people are ticked off, well at least I am. The middle class has just been lowered a notch or two, thanks to income redistribution.
Socialism will fail in the US, but the experiment must go on for the good of the whole.