House Republican’s Revolt against Pelosi Continues – Oil Prices Continue to Fall

The Price of Oil has dropped again yesterday, to 118.60 as speculators backed away – coinciding (coincidentally) with the third day of protest by House Republicans. The House was called into recess last week for a five week vacation by Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Pelosi had continued to block a vote on an energy plan that would allow for offshore drilling, a popular energy plan with U.S. consumers. House Republicans continued to call for a vote, after Ms. Pelosi shut down the House, turned off the lights, and tried to silence those that were calling attention to the nations’ energy crisis.

The first noticeable drop in the price of oil came after President Bush lifted the Presidential Ban on Offshore Drilling, on July 14. At the time, oil was trading at $145 per barrel – a week after Bush lifted the ban and called on Congress to act, oil fell to $128. On Monday, oil dropped again - below $120, and the trend continues while House Republicans continue to call for action.

Although Pelosi publicly continues to stonewall, calling the House Protest a "war dance of the handmaidens of the oil companies.", Politco reported that she is privately telling those Democrats who are in danger of losing a seat, to go ahead and back offshore drilling. John Boehner, Republican Minority Leader, has asked House Democrats to join in an effort that would force the speaker to bring the Republican energy bill to a vote.

What can the “we the people” expect? The House Republican’s have vowed to continue their occupation of the darkened House and speculators will continue to look for excuses to back off oil futures – fearing that offshore drilling will become a reality. Should Pelosi come to her senses, allow the vote, and should it pass (which it is fairly apparent it would handily) America’s mere ability to tap into the nations vast oil supplies will send the price of oil to reasonable pre-Democrat controlled house levels. The nation cannot wait much longer, with home heating costs expected to double this year, those living in the Northeast, West and the Heartland, who don’t have the financial resources of a Pelosi, Kerry or Obama (recently changing his mind on offshore drilling), will be forced to bear the burden of her politically motivated inaction. Additionally, the people pay attention - Pelosi and companys shift with political winds - and subsequent actions speak to character and trustworthiness - these individuals, from the Oval Office through the House are merely hired by the people - political fortunes, like political winds, are subject to change.

Republican House Party – For the People - By the People

It is generally agreed that the average American family is worried about the price of gas and oil (heating fuel) – they also heavily (70%+) favor domestic drilling in order to try and stop what has become a national energy crisis. To date it has appeared that no-one in government was willing to do anything but talk - until yesterday. The House Republicans responded to the needs of the people and stayed in session, despite Nancy Pelosi, house speaker, who decided to cut the people’s needs short. She called the House into recess at approximately 11:30 AM in order to begin her 5 week vacation. For weeks the GOP legislatures have been lobbying to get the speaker to allow a vote to lift the Congressional Offshore Drilling Ban, but Pelosi, in a pure party fashion, stonewalled to the end. When asked about offshore drilling in a recent interview, she quipped: "I will not ... give the administration an excuse for its failure.”

In other words Pelosi will squash any bill that would help the American people, if that bill would make a Republican look good. Pelosi had the power to keep the house in session and bring this issue to a vote. She did not do so because she feared that members of her own party (which currently holds a decent majority but consists of those Democrats who still care about country over party) would vote to lift the oil drilling ban, further damaging the image of an all-powerful speaker.

The Republican minority felt that this issue, so important to the American people, required action. They stayed in session long after Ms. Pelosi made C-SPAN (owned and operated by the American People) shut down their cameras, shut off the house lights, turned off the microphones, and called security.(Stalin anyone?). The Republicans stayed in sessions – ordered up pizzas and kept on talking – in the dark – for the people. This was an historic revolt by a major political party in the best interest of the people – against a party that now is vested in tyranny. John Culbertson, Republican, 7th District Texas, recorded the proceedings (clips shown below) in order to bring attention to the plight of the people and the ridiculous actions of the current Speaker.

Culbertson has come under fire recently from Pelosi and other Democrats for using the Internet as a way to communicate with his constituents. The Complaint: “Current rules "have been interpreted to prohibit (House) members from posting official content outside of the House.gov domain," - this by Rep. Michael Capuano, D-Mass. with the full support of anti-free speech speaker Pelosi. The New York Times agreed with Pelosi and Company, yet, Culbertson has persisted in communicating with the people. Apparently, communicating with constituents by what-ever means necessary is not in the best interest of certain Democrats, especially when they are working contrary to the peoples interest and have imposed a virtual media blackout.

The House Republicans were finally forced to vacate at the close of day – only one person would have been able to keep that house in session and that was George W. Bush. Monday Morning Quarterbacking is called for: Regardless of how much calling Congress back into session (power granted the president under the Constitution), would have put the spotlight on the Republican Party at its best - George Bush had in his grasp the ability to do something for the country (and yes, stick it to Nancy Pelosi at the same time) - an opportunity that has passed. One has to believe that John McCain would have handled this a bit differently – calling the Congress back into session and putting an end to Ms. Pelosi’s 5 week vacation plans – in order to give the people a voice!

Of course, in all fairness, Bush may be letting nature take its course (acting instead of reacting). In a year that Democrats were handed an election on every level, they have systemically set the stage for a Republican run. Even Obama smells the political opportunity as he is ready to shift his position (yet again) on offshore drilling , possibly after the election. A recent article from the Financial Times headlines: “Democrats anxious for Obama to widen lead”- the article cites those nasty McCain ads and the fact that Obama “thinks very highly of himself” as the reason the latest polls are one point apart and closing. What they fail to see is a base that has started to warm to John McCain, in spite of differences - and Obama has yet to win over the hearts and minds of Clinton supporters - and has apparently begun to alienate others in his party (Washington Post on Obama Hecklers). The Democrats in the House and Senate need to take a long look at their own polls, never mind Obama. One must conclude, therefore, that a race which was considered “in the bag”, is now up for grabs and should the Democrats continue to thwart the will of the people in their own self-interest, Republicans will be celebrating Christmas in November.

Bush Signs Executive Order - Note To Congress - Lift Ban on Offshore Drilling -

The Associated Press is reporting that President Bush will lift the executive ban on offshore drilling Breitbart.com in a move to pressure Congress to do the same. The executive order has been in place since 1990, signed by George H. Bush. Recinding the executive ban will be one step in the right direction. However, Democrats and some Republicans must act to lift the second congressional ban.

President Bush will officially lift the ban today.

Lifting the ban on offshore drilling (a ban which is not imposed on Cuba and China, two nations which are drilling 60 miles off the coast of Florida) will halt the speculators and further send a message to oil producing nations that the US will not be held hostage. The end result would be a significant drop in oil prices.

This is a political issue for both parties. The high fuel costs and worsening economy are exactly what the Democrats belive they need in order to take the White House. With the war in Iraq no longer a daily focus there are few issues left (Abortion). Recent polls showing the Democrat controlled Congress with single digit approval ratings suggests that it may be time to put the American people before the party.

The Rising Price of Gas - $4 and Climbing in MA to $7 in CA – Watch all Retail, Including Food Prices, Also Rise – the Solution see 2008

Gas Prices 2008 - commentary from Wake UpAmericans


The price of a gallon of gasoline is on the rise from a high of $4.17 in Boston, MA (Gasbuddy.com) to a high of $7.03 for unleaded in Catalina, CA.(CBS Local) Diesel Fuel is also on the rise affecting the cost to deliver goods to markets, affecting retail items, including food.

The rising price of gas will take a chunk out of a paycheck, at $3.25 a gallon, a vehicle with a 13 gallon tank would cost the consumer - $42.25, at $4.18 that increases to $55.25 - and so on. However, in September of 2008, the price of a gallon of gas of gas, which was at a high point began to drop to $3.72 a gallon from a high in July of $4.11 per gallon (Consumer Reports) - what caused this trend?

A band of House Republicans watched in frustration as the summer recess was upon the Congress, and the rise of fuel was responsible for the closings of businesses, and a downturn in tourism. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) was the Speaker of the House, and refused to discuss the possibility of offshore drilling - instead opting out of a discussion in favor of shutting down Congress and taking a vacation. The House Republican’s revolted, Nancy Pelosi had the cameras (CPAN) removed, the lights shut down - however, several Congressional Representatives, stood their ground, and stayed in session, using cell-phones to upload the proceedings, inviting people into the gallery to listen to arguments, (and buying pizza) – this went on for weeks until Pelosi gave in, brought the House back into session and allowed a vote on offshore drilling. As soon as that occurred, the price per barrel of oil, and subsequently, the price for fuel, dropped.

It was not so much that the drilling ever took place (as soon as President Obama took office, there was a drive towards Green Industries, away from fossil fuels), it was that the speculators who bet on the price of gasoline, much like betting on a horse, were convinced it would continue to climb, as soon as the vote was cast, the speculators backed off, and the price dropped like a stone.

Now we’re looking at the same factor, and solutions have been offered, however, none of them include a serious threat to open up the immense U.S. oil and natural gas industry. If there was, for example, if the President would get behind the completion of the pipeline (natural gas) from Canada it would not only bring more fuel into the country, but much needed jobs. but that is not the case - he did suggest they complete “half” of the project known as the Keystone Pipeline. Half of the pipeline, or a pipeline to nowhere – which if one were a fuel speculator, one would bet against the price of fuel dropping anytime soon.

With a great deal of clamoring from the General Public and those pesky House Republican’s, Obama has given the Department of Interior permission to “expedite the review of drilling permits” on private land in North Dakota. That said reviewing drilling permits is not the same as issuing permits, which shows those speculators a half-hearted attempt of satisfying the populaiton as something appears to be happening, however the Administrations continued love affair with green industries, is transparently trumping pain the consumers are facing at the pump.

With the House in Republican control, and the President on the Campaign Trail, a campaign from either or to not only expedite the process of reviewing the request for drilling permits, but an outright push to fast track permits, would end the high price of gasoline – first by squelching the dreams of the speculators, which would trickle down to the pumps, and as a result, would make many middle to low income families quite happy.

The question remains, when will it become politically expedient for the President to make such a move? That’s hard to tell, but until then the country that has more natural resources than Saudi Arabia, must import the majority of its oil, and watch the prices at the pump rise. History is what happened yesterday, and since this not so distant brouhaha with the former Speaker and the loan band of rebel Republican’s took place in 2008, one would think that memory would serve and somehow the President would connect the dots. Policies should be put aside at this point and time for the poor (which will now include the middle class).

Obama’s Boston Birthday Bash - $28,500 Dinner Ticket

Barrack Obama spent the evening in Boston amongst friends, in an effort to raise additional cash for his “victory fund”. Tickets for “dinner with Obama”, were set at $17,000 for an individual and $28,500 per couple, or for most of those left in the Bay state, the cost to heat a home for the winter, pick up the tab on the Bay states Mandated Health Care Reform bill, and general financial support to the state in the form of Income Tax (On the Ballot to Repeal), Sales Tax, Gasoline Tax, and sundry other fees. The sharp contrast between those that have (Nancy Pelosi, John Kerry) and those that are trying to survive (actual Baystaters') is evident in the party that was once herald as belonging to and fighting for “the working man”.

The article also notes that many Hillary Clinton supporters came out to toast and open their wallets for Barrack. Out of $5,000,000 raised - $700,000 came from Clinton supporters in the Bay state, a signal taken to mean all Clinton supporters are on the Obama band-wagon. That may mean some Clinton Supporters who have the cash on hand to throw at Obama are going in that direction, but it does not include the rank and file Massachusetts Democrat voter. Social networking sites such as MySpace, which continues to be home to many political campaigns grassroots efforts, tell a different story.
Hillary Clinton 2012 grassroots MySpace site has over 63,000 “friends”, with calls to action - bulletins urging donations to Cindy Sheehan’s campaign – Cindy Sheehan is campaigning for Nancy’s Pelosi’s seat. Not everyone is on Obama’s bus – specifically women (Democrats) who feel that the best chance for their party to regain the white house, slipped through their fingers when Party Leaders, like John Kerry (D. MA), threw their support behind Barrack Obama, often against the wishes of their constituants.

Both Kerry and Pelosi are facing opposition from within their own party – in Kerry’s case, Ed O’Reilly, a populist Gloucester, MA resident, is gaining ground and momentum as the September primary approaches. While John Kerry had a stop in a local donut shop in Framingham that drew an embarrassing 50 supporters, Ed O’Reilly around the state appearances have been well-received – he relates to the base, and he even looks a bit like a Kennedy! Who, in the Bay State would support such a candidate over the much “revered” John Kerry? How about Clinton supporters?

Meanwhile, yesterday Obama appeared to switch his position, yet again, on offshore drilling, while in the company of “Save the Planet” Pelosi. Pelosi is being called to task by House Republicans - who are scheduled to continue to protest over Pelosi’s refusal to allow a vote on offshore drilling, instead, calling the House into recess for 5 weeks. John McCain, to his credit, said Congress should reconvene to deal with the energy crisis – the only person who can call the Congress back into an emergency session is the President – so far, no interest from the White House in supporting those Republican congressmen protesting on the Hill.

As Democrats continue to ponder why Obama and the rest of the Democrats are not showing huge gains in the polls, (Latest Opinion Polls give McCain a 1 point lead nationwide) the “average Joe and Jane” are looking at ways to heat their home this winter, drive to work, and continue to pay for groceries – all they understand is that it costs $28,500 to sit down with Obama for dinner and Nancy Pelosi would rather stump for her book than take the time out to vote on Offshore Drilling. Although most media is treating the Republican House Protest as some sort of “prank”, and most articles are found, if at all, buried on Fox, CNN and like websites, increasing awareness through social networking sites, has people admiring those that would stand up for and communicate directly with – the people. It also highlights the differences between the party “elites” and their constituents – nothing should be taken for granted in 2008.

House Republicans – True Grit - On the Bail Out and Drilling for Oil

There are a group of House Republicans who have, in recent months, created a bit of a “thorn” in Nancy Pelosi’s side. The first “revolt” came with the energy crisis; Nancy Pelosi decided that there would be no vote on offshore oil drilling, going to extraordinary lengths to stop the debate – the House Republicans, including John Culberson and John Boehner, stayed to debate, long after Pelosi shut off the lights, turned off the CSPAN cameras and shut down the Congress. They stayed, using every available devise to communicate with constituents, and debated and demanded a return as well as a resolution that would include offshore oil drilling. Their success has not been touted in the press, in fact, there is little mention lately of the fact that Nancy Pelosi lost and the energy bill that included offshore drilling was passed. If it had not been for this “revolt”, the bill would not have seen the light of day. The price of crude had dropped significantly as a result of the addition of off-shore drilling's inclusion in the plan.

They are at it again – this time they are not enamored of the $700 Billion Bail Out and have been virtually left out of negotiations and ignored by Pelosi – (She did not even read the suggestions they had made). That was until she realized she needed them on board - why? – no one party wants to be responsible for this fiasco – and considering the mess can be laid at the feet of the Democrats (see previous posts on financial crisis on this blog). It is also worth noting that although there were warnings about this same fine mess from certain members, specifically John McCain, his bills got nowhere - blocked by Democrats, and little was done to stop the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac crisis. The bill now has the support of Boehner, (as a result of McCain’s trip back to Washington and his ability to bring all parties together – also going unnoticed) however, it does not necessarily have the support of the rank and file Boehner, to his credit, noted that he had told his party members to vote their conscious. Video’s taken yesterday by John Culberson (R-TX); clearly show that there are great misgivings about this bailout – as there should be. Culberson with John Carter outline the Republican House recommendations in the videos below.

To date, this group of rebellious men (quite American in concept), have got their point across, it is hopeful that they will succeed in having some impact on this bill that is being shoved down the throats of the public. It would not be for a lack of trying – they deserve credit for taking their jobs seriously – working for the American people.

McCain on the Move - The Energy Man

McCain at Townhall Meetings, Union Leader, NH

Yesterday, John McCain called for a lift on the offshore drilling ban, indicating individual states should make the decision to drill or not to drill. Finally, someone is suggesting something tangible in response to the current surge in oil prices that will certainly cripple those states that experience the global warming trends of freezing temps from October to April. The Obama camp responded in a predictable manner – opposition to US drilling offshore or anywhere for that matter. Funny thing is that offshore drilling does take place, within 90 miles of the US coastline - not by US companies, but by Cuba off the Florida coast. Apparently, Cuba is in no danger of any political attacks from the Progressive Obama camp – not being politically expedient.

McCain also supports a gas-tax holiday, although he hasn’t brought that up recently, he should hammer home energy concerns hard, especially in areas that will be most affected immediately following the general election in November.

Move on.org, the right hand of the Obama machine, is set to run attack ads against McCain’s Iraq position. It’s a good thing that Move on is giving the Democrat Party a helping hand, considering they are facing budget shortfalls for their Denver convention. With all the spin coming from the DNC as to the lack of funds McCain may or may not have, it is ironic that they are the ones having problems funding the big party. Or is it? The big money Clinton supporters have not yet dished out a dime to support the DNC. George Soros may have to continue to bail out Obama and the party he chooses to run.

It boils down to who the electorate is going to trust the most, in the final analysis, much the same way it broke down in 2004. At that time, the press and the pundits were convinced that John Kerry would lead the march to the white house on the Iraq war theme and the general population disenfranchised with George W. Bush. Swift boat ads aside, John Kerry was not a popular guy, but he did have one thing, experience. He sat in that Senate seat for more 20 years, granted doing very little, but at the very least he was present. Meanwhile, Obama, brilliant though he may appear, has little actual experience, except to take every possible opportunity in a fast track to his current position, with little vetting by the press. It will be the next four months that allow the American people (and the varied 527’s), to delve into the candidates history in order to get to know them a bit better. McCain’s record is solid, regardless of his quasi-conservative credentials (Mike Huckabee as a V.P. running mate would take care of that problem), and Obama’s is yet to be proven, (his V.P. choice will do little to change the course of nature as he is the focal point of the campaign). It will not, therefore, be a surprise, when November rolls around and the race tightens to within a one-state battleground. The question will be which state, and if it is a large electoral state that Clinton carried in the primary, how many of those vengeful voters will turn to McCain? Women, although Obama and the press are desperately trying to court the demographic, are not easily swayed (except for giddy CNN commentators, and the Obama girls found round the globe), it will be those pesky 40 plus voters who could care less how charming Obama looks in his Speedo, that will make the difference. McCain is outlining actual plans, much like Hillary Clinton had done, before her party and the media sent her back to the “kitchen.”

U.S. Government - Raising the Debt Ceiling – Consequences Raising Taxes – Politicos as Usual not Fooling the Public.

Economy no place to play politics as usual - image milktheclock.com


The current administration is bent on raising the U.S. debt ceiling according to an article in Politico: Tim Geithner, Treasury Secretary “and administration’s point man”, spoke on several weekend talks shows noting: he was certain that lawmakers would avoid disaster by voting to raise the $14.3 trillion ceiling.
“Congress is going to have to raise the debt limit. They understand that. That’s absolutely essential to preserve the credit-worthiness of the United States of America.”

Further, several Republican lawmakers noted that they would be willing to raise the debt ceiling if there was a balanced budget amendment attached (Politico), however, the likelihood of the administration reining in spending, given the history of the current administrations eagerness to spend, is unlikely. The fact of the matter is that without deep cuts in spending, which would include entitlement programs, there appears no way to balance the budget. The President, already on the campaign trail for reelection in 2012, had made remarks regarding the House Republicans’ attempts to cut the Health Care Reform Act, by saying they would not touch “his” health care plan in taped remarks and further sarcastically denounced Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), as “America's accountant and trying to be responsible”.

Without a willingness to cut or redesign programs that are money eaters, the only other option is to raise taxes across the board – which was made clear by the Senate Republicans who, according to the Washington Post: have been willing to discuss a budget deal that would include raising more money through taxes, along with making deep spending cuts, to help reduce the deficit.

The question remains, what programs would these lawmakers, from both sides of the aisle, cut, in order to satisfy constituents or their “base” going into the 2012 elections? One would find it difficult to imagine that the largest entitlement programs: Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid would be revised under any circumstances, and pork is, for some members of Congress, untouchable. Until and unless somebody in the government is willing to take a political hit to save the solvency of the nation, the downward spiral will continue – and as long as the partisan finger pointing by the President and the Democrats in both house, as well as certain Republicans continues, (while in campaign mode), with the debt ceiling raised, and no control over spending continues, the value of the dollar declines, and inflation will increase – to Carter’s levels.

According to reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, if one does not factor in food and fuel, the inflation rate is actually quite low, however, when food and fuel are introduced, the rate of inflation (which is considered volatile and subject to change), the rate is approximately (according to the BED) 2%. Add this to the current unemployment rate of 8.8% , and the Obama Misery Index is currently at 11% - or three points behind former President Carter’s 13.8% high.(One who shops for groceries now, may find that inflation rate to be on the low side.)

The rise in fuel prices at the pump ($4.00) reduces households disposable income, add to that the rise in food prices (which are directly impacted by the rise in fuel), do not appear to be going down anytime soon. When consumers have less to spend, due to food and fuel costs, those industries that rely on expendable income are forced to close doors – causing additional layoffs and a resin the unemployment rate. The U.S. is now on an unsustainable course, unless someone steps in and takes the political gloves off, and put s the American Public first.

We do have solutions, unfortunately, they are not politically correct solutions, such as drilling offshore, and removing the ban on the Alaskan oil fields; even a hint of ending the ban on drilling and opening up our lands to drill, would send the prices of oil downward, as evidenced by the actions of the Congress in 2008, when a band of house Republicans stayed on the floor to force then House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, back into session in order to vote on offshore drilling. The price of gas at that point had risen dramatically; it worked, with the results that without a single drill touching the earth, the commodities traders backed off, and oil re-adjusted. In addition, President George Bush had authorized a rebate to the American public, a stimulus so to speak, in order to “jump start” the economy, after the rise in oil prices. Unfortunately, instead of spending that money on hard goods (electronics, etc.), most used the extra check to pay off credit cards which had been used to buy high priced fuel!. There appears, no matter the party in charge, a tendency to move too little too late.

Unless the government is willing to reign in wasteful spending: a Report released by the GAO, found that over one hundred billion to upwards to 200 billion in waste could be cut from the federal spending spree. The report, available < a href="http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d11318sp.pdf">here in PDF, addresses areas of waste and duplication that are, mind boggling. Perhaps someone should send a copy to Obama, Geithner, the Senate Republicans and anyone who’s currently attempting to save the economy, as a starting point in reductions. Of course, these are smart people, so they must have access to the report, preferring to politicize, rather than come up with any real solutions.


Trump and Huckabee, the two GOP Poll Leaders can they stop the madness? - image Politico

As the overburdened U.S. taxpayer (which is only half the populace, and mainly middle class, takes one hit after another going forward to into the 2012 elections, those in power should pay careful attention to the man behind the hair, who, although characterized as a “clown”, and “not serious” has been polling gangbusters in the last two weeks on the GOP side. Donald Trump, one might dismiss out of hand, however, in a non-scientific poll of 18 to 24 year olds, conducted “on the street”, by this blog (sample 100 in Massachusetts), all likely to vote in this election: were asked the following questions
1. What do you think of the President?
He’s got to go (expletives and strong language removed.)
2.Who would you vote for?
“You’re fired”! – Trump he’s “cool”
3.What does Trump stand for politically?
I don’t’ know and I don’t care.
4.Then why would you vote for him?
“Obama is old news, Trump is cool”.

Granted this is a multi-cultural, multi-racial, multi-religious group of high school seniors and colleges students who see no future under the current administration.
5. How likely are they to vote: Very.

Democrats or Republicans – neither, regardless of their Professors urgings, they are more to the point ready to vote for the Next American Idol.
This is how the economy impacts all voters. On the Press and its run of Donald Trump and the “Birther” issue – the response – “who cares”.

Granted not scientific, therefore, would love to see a real poll conducted across the nation, not just in blue state Massachusetts, not by some casual blogger, but by a real pollster with, as they say “street creds”.

It is, to sum it up, The Economy Stupid” and with the waste, the political machinations and the finger pointing, any candidate, Trump, Huckabee, Palin, who gets in front of the people and is blunt about prospects and how to fix them (a la Trump) will stand a better than even chance of taking on the 21st century’s Jimmy Carter.

Oh Canada! Conservative Pro-Business, Anti-Tax Party Takes the Helm, Largest Supplier of Oil to U.S. will Not Block Northern Gateway Tanker Traffic.

Why both nations have the ability to stimulate economies quickly...

Canadians held elections on Tuesday, putting the conservative Tories Party firmly in control of the government. According to Reuter’s, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, now has a Party majority in the Canadian Parliament, and plans on moving forward with a pro-business agenda, starting with oil.

Canada’s oil industry should benefit – The oil sands industry has “massive resources” in Alberta, and has realized a “surge in income” with rising crude prices (Globe and Mail).

Canada, according to the Reuters report, is the largest exported of oil to the U.S., and interestingly, there are seven provinces where oil and natural gas are produced.
U.S. Domestic Production in Alaska, has been stalled by the EPA, and although the U.S. has imposed bans on drilling, an article form Institute for Energy Research.org notes that other oil producing countries are not following suit – including Mexico, China and Cuba, with the later drilling within 40 miles of the U.S. Coast.

The largest Oil Producing States in the U.S. are Texas, North Dakota (who’s recent surge in crude production places is bound to overtake production in both) Alaska and California (Alaska Daily News).

Understanding that between the Canadian and the hampered U.S. oil Industry, (which is capable of being self-sustaining), the need for importing crude from the Middle East is questionable. Should the U.S. bans on drilling (offshore, shale fields etc.) be lifted or modified to allow for production, and should the U.S. invest in more refineries, the price per barrel would fall dramatically. Referring to the pre-2008 election in the U.S. when oil prices had skyrocketed (not as severely as today) several Texas Republican House Members stayed in session while the Democrats under Nancy Pelosi’s leadership, shut down the house, and literally shut off the lights, as the days then weeks went on, the Speaker called the house back into session, and began discussions on lifting of oil drilling bans. The result, within a week, prices has fallen, based on the speculation that oil would be flowing through the U.S.

What the Canadian’s apparently understand is business and national survival are part and parcel, while the United States is, at the present time, apparently less concerned about the price of gasoline pushing past $5.00. Although Canadians do pay more for gasoline, it is, one would suggest, a lack of refineries in both nations that presents the biggest problem. Though one can hardly blame those in the oil industry who would build more refineries, as the ability to drill for oil, and then refine and shore up supplies of gasoline (driving down the cost at the pump), may not be in their financial best interest given the fickle nature of the governments ban on drilling, when the mood suits - the fact remains we need more refineries online.

As the U.S. focuses on “Green Businesses”which are yet proven to be capable of meeting consumer demands, We currently have 137 oil refineries online (EIA.DOE.gov), and the only new refinery planned (or funded by the U.S. Government) is in Columbia (the nation to our south) Apparently, no new refineries have been built in the U.S. Since 1976 and without the ability to refine the oil into gasoline and other products, the prices will remain sky high.

Canada, however is not standing still, with the latest planned refinery in Edmonton approve this year, as they have far fewer refineries than the U.S. at 10 total,one would think that between the two nations oil supplies, it would behoove both to boost refinery capacity in order to really stimulate the economies – instead of laying off refineries and exporting the oil elsewhere: as of 2008, the U.S. was exporting 1.8 million barrels ad day.

More drilling, more refineries, less exports, more domestic stimulus – Perhaps our Northern Neighbors will get it right, and in some perfect universe where the EPA and the minds of the Congress and a pro-economy Executive branch meet, so will the U.S.

Dallas Fed – Inflation up for February, as Gasoline Careens Towards $5.00 per Gallon, Shades of the 1970’s – It’s Carter Time!

The latest Dallas Fed Reports notes that food prices rose substantially the past year, with an 8.2% annualized rate among all categories. All categories include processed and preprocessed foods:

“It’s notable, then, that while prices for more-processed items increased by a smaller amount than prices for less-processed items, gains for both were robust—annualized 14 percent for less-processed items and 6 percent for more-processed items. Data at the more-processed end will bear watching in the coming months for signs of further impact from price increases at cruder stages of processing.”

What this boils down to in plain speak, is that consumers are finding higher prices at the retail grocery level, and may see steeper increases over the coming months due to the rising costs of fuel.

As the Middle East Implodes, and the ban on offshore drilling continues, the price per gallon of gasoline, climbing above $4.00 in some states, will, most likely go to $5.00 per gallon. That said, even at $4.00 per gallon, it affects not only those who commute to work and school, cutting back expendable income, but affects, again, the price of food. Delivery is factored into the price of groceries reaching the market. The end results are that families will be making some tough choices in the coming months, like so many were forced to in the 1970’s.

While the President weighs options, among them anything but opening up the U.S. offshore oil fields at a fast clip, should the price of a gas of gallon reach $5.00, he may opt to cut the Federal Gas Tax and/or Open Strategic Oil Reserves (which would be a national security issue).

During the 1970’s, when fuel prices rose dramatically, demand and supply fell dramatically, one might park in line for hours only to reach a pump and find the gasoline “sold out” – cars were routinely abandoned in favor of public transport, and car pooling (if one could find the fuel) became the norm. The crisis then, the return of the Ayatollah with the help of one Jimmy Carter to Iran, and the solution: new leadership.

The cycle that the United States is experiencing now, has happened before, and recently at that (The Carter Administration late 1970’s), the fact of the matter is that it will correct, but the process is painful. Those most at risk are individuals living on fixed incomes, such as the nation’s retirees. Things to do: Keep your gas tank full at all times, find, in advance, bus schedules or public transportation modes to get one back and forth to work, and then hunker down until the economy rights itself.

Jeff Beatty: Drill for Oil - John Kerry: Pose for Photos!

Jeff Beatty, Republican Candidate for Senate MA, is siding with 70% of the populous nationwide in a call to drill for oil (offshore and anywhere else we might have a barrel). He is running against incumbent John Kerry (D) who is in favor of allowing anyone but a US oil company to drill offshore. (Cuba and China are apparently OK) Kerry is fearful that a US Oil Company may make a profit by drilling within the United States. (Note: Democrat Primary takes place on September 16, at which time, Beatty will absolutely know if he will be facing John Kerry or possibly Ed O’Reilly.)

The Democrats in Congress are sitting on their hands watching the economy tank, because somewhere back in their collective brain, they believe that a bad economy is good for their party. Pelosi, Reid and company know full well, that should they lift the Congressional ban on oil there would be an immediate impact – the speculators would lower expectations, and the price would drop like a rock – which would be good for consumers.

Republicans know this, and the last thing the Democrats want is another issue that the Republicans are right about (see: Surge in Iraq)

Jeff Beatty is just plain smart to take a strong stand on drilling our own oil and promoting U.S. Self-Sufficiency. It would behoove every Republican running for office, or not, to follow Jeff’s example. Those Democrats running (incumbent or otherwise) in states that are affected by winter woes, are excellent targets.

While Kerry is out there posing for photographs with four young tipsy and Underage (ack.net) hotties on Nantucket, the price per barrel of oil keeps climbing. John Kerry’s bad judgment regarding issues important to Massachusetts residents, along with his bad judgment in general, may be why 51% of the states voters thought he should find employment elsewhere, of course, that was in earlier this summer.

WHDH Channel 7 News Boston - Kerry is Denying anything improper - view You Tube Video

House Republicans August 4th – Patriots Continue America’s Energy Debate in Darkened House

House Leader, John Boehner (R. Ohio) and Roy Blunt (House Whip, R. Missouri) sent a memo to Republican members of the House and their staff on over the weekend urging them to continue to protest and debate America’s energy crisis on Monday. John Culberson (R. Texas) and other house members, will continue to provide updates to constituants via Twitter today.

To what end? The call to action by this group of House Republicans is in the interest of the people, unlike their Democrat counterparts, led by House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi. Pelosi called the House into recess on Friday (5 week summer vacation), while House Republicans continued to protest and debate on the floor. Pelosi has continued to refuse to allow a vote on offshore drilling, despite the fact that the Democrats have a majority in the House and should, if one were to believe they were “one party in concert”, easily defeat the Republican Energy proposal. So, what could possibly prevent the Speaker from putting an end to this? The only logical conclusions are that Pelosi feels she would lose if the bill were put to a vote, or she is simply so power driven that she cannot see the trees for the forest.

Nancy has been busy, she’s promoting her latest book and she is also pushing her choice for the Democrats V.P. pick
Chet Edwards,on Obama. Surely within five weeks, she might find the time to address the American people’s needs? Perhaps she may even take time to notice that Cindy Sheehan, , her San Francisco contemporary, is expected to make the ballot and run against Madam Speaker. In a year where the Democrat controlled Legislature continues to poll at historically low favorability ratings, it would not come as a shock should Ms. Sheehan replace the speaker. (Think San Francisco.)

Republican’s have asked Ms. Pelosi to call Congress back in an emergency session to vote on this bill. From John Boehner’s website: “It’s not a request we make lightly. But the American people are suffering,” Boehner and Blunt said in the memo. “The consequences of continued congressional inaction on gas prices are unacceptable. We’ve called on the Speaker to call Congress back into an emergency session this month and schedule a vote on the American Energy Act. We must continue to make a stand until the Speaker complies.”

It is about time that the people we hire (those citizens who we, the people, vote into office to represent our needs) took action on our behalf. The type of “revolt” that the Republican house members began on Friday is exactly what makes one proud to be a part of this great Republic. They are displaying true patriotism. With an issue that is so urgent to the public, it is surprising that not one member from the other side of the political aisle has joined in an attempt to put the needs of their constituents over the wishes of their party master.

Playing “devils advocate”, one might argue that this group of Republicans are only looking for media attention and that they are playing on this issue in order to drive up the stock of the Republican Party. However, were that true, why would they have continued to debate without a single national media outlet available? (House Speaker Pelosi effectively kicked out the media on Friday, shutting down C-Span and removing reporters from the House). With the House still in darkness, and with limited ability to reach the public, the few will continue to speak for the people. Hurrah!

Jeff Beatty – Batting 1000, predicts Republican Victory in Massachusetts.

Jeff Beatty, Republican Candidate for U.S. Senate was on hand to throw out the first pitch today for the American Legion Baseball Tournament at Szot Park in Chicopee. . He was introduced to a strong round of applause, and after he threw out the first pitch - came off the field to words of encouragement, “I hope you win” - players and bystanders alike reached out to shake his hand.

There is something about this candidate – he is likable. The first thing one notices about Jeff Beatty is his ready smile - his hand outstretched in greeting - the kind of guy you want for your next door neighbor – not the “untouchable politician” looking for the next “photo opp”. Watching Beatty walk through the crowd, stopping to chat or take a picture – one quickly understands his grassroots appeal – Beatty has a genuine interest in what the other guy or gal has on their mind – he listens. He has a brand of subtle charisma, soft spoken – yet authoritative and intelligent – a leader. This assessment is from one who has had the opportunity to meet and listen to a few politicians at the state and national level over the past 40 years – those who have run those who have also-ran – Beatty is poised to succeed.


He agrees with the majority of Americans when it comes to the nation’s energy crisis - something that is one everyone’s mind – Beatty is in favor of offshore drilling – accessing America’s oil supplies and increasing the nations capacity to refine.

He also understands the political landscape. Back in early July, he predicted that McCain, with a 20 plus point polling deficit against Obama in Massachusetts – would begin to gain, and eventually take the 12 Massachusetts electoral votes. Good call - a recent 7 News/Suffolk University Poll shows Obama’s lead over McCain in Massachusetts has fallen to 9 points. Although there is this preconceived notion that Massachusetts is a Democrat stronghold (the only state that McGovern carried in 1972), the heavy concentration of those unenrolled voters (51%), can produce a Republican win in presidential races (Reagan, 1980 and 1984), Senatorial Races (Edward Brooke, Republican (also the first African American to be elected to the Senate) 1972, and the Governor’s office (Weld, Romney). It is all about the political climate, and that climate is subject to change. There is a certain South Dakota, circa 2004, atmosphere in the Bay state.

Ed O’Reilly, Democrat Gloucester, has a Kennedyesque charm and may surprise both the Bay state and incumbent John Kerry in the September primary. Kerry, who has deep ties to Barrack Obama, dating to the 2004 Democrat convention , endorsed the Illinois Senator against his constituents wishes (the Bay state Democrats overwhelmingly supported Hillary Clinton’s candidacy), this and his stance on the Iraq war, led to O’Reilly garnering well over 15% of the delegates necessary to place him on the September primary ballot, at the Democrat Convention in Lowell.

Therefore, it is now a question of who Jeff Beatty will face in November – an incumbent who 51% of voters polled believe should be replaced (Suffolk University Poll) or the affable, but left-of-left, O’Reilly. Massachusetts will be the state to watch this November.

Photographs taken Szot Park, Chicopee - Non-Professional

It Must be Winter – U.S. Consumers begin to feel pinch from Increase in Fuel Prices – OPEC seeks price-setting at $100 Barrel.

OPEC, $100 per Barrel on the table - image Latest News

When the need for fuel increases during the winter (heating) and summer (anticipated vacation bound drivers), the price of fuel appears to increase with demand. As January approaches, the price at the gas pumps has risen to over $3.00 per gallon, or up 7 cents in a week. (Reuters). Meanwhile, OPEC is, once again, asking for an increase in price per barrel, up to $100 Saudi Arabia wants pricing set at approximately $75/per barrel, while Libya, Iran and Venezuela prefer the higher price per barrel. This is causing some anxiety amongst oil importers such as Japan, and, yes, the U.S. (Bloomberg).

OPEC has historically toyed with the vast wealth of oil at its disposal, during the 1970’s, under the Ford, then Carter administrators, Carter, when pressed by rising OPEC prices, fixed prices in the United states, which resulted in an embargo and subsequent gas lines at the pumps. (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, March 1st, 1974). Carter’s response was to offer a tax on U.S. consumers in order to manage consumption which ultimately failed to pass the Congress. (Washington Afro-American). Additionally, always attempting to tax his way out of a problem, Carter, instituted a “Windfall Profit Tax on “Big Oil”, which resulted in a backlash of fewer barrels of oil being refined in the U.S.

With President Obama reading Reagan’s blueprint for a productive nation, perhaps he’ll pick up on the Reagan Plan of drilling both offshore and in Alaska to boost production crippled under Carter. (Merced Sun-Star).

He might want to get a few pointers from the former Governor of Alaska, who trimmed $231 Million from the Alaskan budget, and then went to battle with Oil Companies to boost production

Palin, during her tenure as Governor of Alaska,

1) Created Alaska's Petroleum Systems Integrity Office to oversee maintenance of oil and gas equipment, facilities and infrastructure, and a Climate Change Subcabinet to prepare a climate change strategy for Alaska.
2)Passed major legislation that began a competitive process to construct a gas pipeline and overhauled state ethics laws.
3)Served as chair of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. (National Governors Association)

Palin also served as Chair of the NGA’s Natural Resource Committee

With a new move to the middle by the Leader of the Free World, all things may be possible, but it remains to be seen whether he will follow the lead of Carter or take advantage of a Tea Party Congress and it's hero's and heroines: Reagan and Palin

Democrat Theory of Politically Taxing U.S. Oil Companies to Reduce Deficit Increase Election Chances – Proven - Result Carteresque Backfire – Shortage

In 1979 President Jimmy Carter had a deficit problem, high unemployment, inflation on the rise, and a “misery index”. The solution: tax big oil with a “Windfall Profit Tax” on oil companies. It rang true with those few who felt Carter was, at the time, the best President since George Washington, however, the end result was a disaster for the general public. Although oil profits appeared obscene, the end result was, at the time, exploration and production. The “Windfall Profit Tax” resulted in – less production and long lines at the pump (See “Emergency Fuel Supplies Rushed to South Florida”, Sarasota Herald Tribune, June 30, 1980) The concept of gas lines from 1979 through the 1980’s was a direct result of the assault on U.S. oil companies by the Carter Administration and a like-minded Congress. Those Windfall profits for the U.S. Government put the U.S. household in a huge bind, as gas prices climbed, and those that could, turned to public transportation in areas where it existed. For those areas that did not have public transportation that was adequate, walking and taking ones bike to work, to the grocer, anywhere was the only option. It was, in a word, not just a tax on the oil companies by an administration that had depleted the nations coffers, but a hardship on the entire U.S. population.

They're at it again. The grilling of oil company executives is now taking place on Capitol Hill. An article from the Canadian Globe and Mail, hits it spot on - ”Big Oil Hearings Great Political Theatre”. However, the unintended consequences of those Democrats trying to pin the nation’s economic woes on Big Oil, in an attempt to, again, use any tax revenues gained to pay down the deficit, instead of cutting programs, will be less gas to get to where the average American is going – like work if they have a job. It isn’t necessarily the high price of gas, which includes a chunk of change in taxes at the pump for the Feds (which is incentive enough to not actually do much about the situation other than hold hearings and point fingers at Big Oil), it is the fact that without the ability of the U.S. Oil companies to compete on a global scale, and extract oil to refine, that will result, again, in a Carter flashback. Even the mention of a tax, or end of tax breaks in this case, (post Carter), could result in speculators betting on a reduction in oil supply, causing the prices to – rise.

There have been some changes in the nation and federal government since Carter’s days. Not for nothing, but the population has increased, more cars, even those that are fuel efficient, are on the road and the government is financially vested in auto dealers, and their union, the United Auto Workers – all of whom will suffer. Without available fuel, there is no need or even ability to drive one’s car, and no need to buy a new one,(even GE's plug in's such as Chevy's Volt (GM) priced at a "modest" $32,800 without frills, is not an option for most Americans) prices on food and staples also rise (in a period where food is now subject to inflation) – will surely leave the general public doing without even more.

There are, of course, solutions, but those solutions are not acceptable to certain groups – such as drilling offshore, or on shore for that matter – it doesn’t sit right with the current administrations ideology – better to find a scapegoat – look like one is doing something for the American People, and keep on campaigning without a clue.

Which is what Carter did and the end result was the “Reagan Revolution.” Although one may tend to disagree ideologically with the current administration, one must beg that someone hand the current resident of the White House a history book or even news clippings of the Carter era before it is too late for the lower and middle class Americans who are already suffering enough. Of course, the probable end result will be a new administration, (which, although some consider the President in a good position for reelection now, his approval rankings, do not add up to a second term, under any circumstances), a repeal of any taxes, additional incentives given to the oil companies, short term taxes on, you guessed it, the American public, and then a road to prosperity. A word to all who intend to vote in the next general election, insure that one’s choice of a candidate has at least a modicum of understanding even recent U.S. History and economics - what has worked and what has failed miserably.