Unfortunately, for the masses, "perception is reality", and GWB and the Republicans, as the party in power, are going to take a big hit on this if they haven't already.
There's probably very little GWB can do about it (although you'd think he could call in a few chips with a Middle East potentate or two).
My concern is that he's following in the footsteps of his dad by not even addressing what's going on.
Remember GHWB fumbling around in the supermarket checkout line? That, more than anything, may have cost him the '92 election
True...it would only be symbolic, but GWB needs to explain (as best he can) to the American people why this is all happening, and express his empathy and concern.
He's looking pretty aloof about it right now.
I agree with you completely. Most people have no idea why all of this is happening. They need to be told.
All anyone knows is that gas prices have risen a lot, not a little, but a lot and there has been NO explanation from Washington.
Some people at Free Republic may sneer at the sheeple who dare to have SUVs and long commutes. Maybe everyone really should ride a bike. But there better be a real good reason that is made clear to people, and that is the President's job. He is supposed to lead.
Yesterday my father (not a political man, just a regular working man) went to the gas station and there was a long, long line. This is in Pennsylvania. He said it was a line just like he remembered from the 70s. He was astonished and upset. He ended up going somewhere else and paying nearly 20 cents more ($2.93 a gallon), and only filling up the car a third. Can't afford a full tank at those prices.
It's bad when people start thinking it is the 70s all over again. Many people, right or wrong, already believe Bush is somehow in league with the Saudis and big oil. It's one of those urban legends but a whole lot of people believe it. He needs to show some leadership.
Because soon the Democrats will take advantage and they'll be the ones framing the situation.
>>>He's looking pretty aloof about it right now.
He's looking a little aloof to me right now, and I campaigned for him. I'm not saying he controls the price of crude oil, but I would think he has SOMEthing he can do. Or at least act like he gives a damn.