Bush not leading in lowering gas use

As gas prices continue to hit record highs, President Bush appears bewildered and has failed to take any action that would help families being hurt by the high price of gas. Instead of leadership, Bush gives us platitudes and cliches.

In a February news conference the President expressed surprise when a reporter said analysts were predicting gas prices of $4 a gallon.

When the president does address the issue of energy consumption and high gas prices, he talks of reducing our dependency on Middle East oil imports, developing alternative fuels, building new refineries and drilling in ANWR. Even if drilling in Alaska and building new refineries began tomorrow, it would do nothing to ease the high energy prices of today.

In 2007, the top five oil companies had the following net profits: Exxon Mobil $40.6 billion, Shell $31.3 billion, Conoco Phillips $11.9 billion, BP $20.8 billion and Chevron $18.7 billion. As unbelievable as it may seem, despite these record profits, oil companies still receive government subsidies.

So what can be done now that would help families? The answer of course is very simple -- reduce consumption. It should begin with Bush addressing the nation and urging all Americans to reduce their consumption of liquid fuel. The president could then demonstrate leadership by announcing all government departments and agencies, including the military, would be required to reduce liquid fuel consumption by at least 25 percent. This action alone would reduce consumption by at least 50 million barrels a year.

Reduce consumption by 50 million barrels here and 50 million barrels there and pretty soon your beginning to talk about a real reduction in consumption.

Victor Darst

West Dundee