200 economists criticize gas-tax holiday
Click the Play Button to see what Jack and our viewers had to say. (PHOTO CREDIT: AP PHOTO)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
What are the chances 200 economists would know more about the gas-tax holiday proposals of John McCain and Hillary Clinton? Clinton and McCain would like to buy your vote for somewhere between $28 and $70, which is how much you would save if their idea ever happens... which it won't. If it does, I will eat an Exxon station.
The economists – including four Nobel Prize winners, advisers to past presidents and Republicans as well as Democrats (some of whom are Clinton supporters) – signed a letter rejecting the candidates' plans for the summertime tax relief.
They say it would simply generate major profits for oil companies, instead of significantly lowering prices for consumers. Also, they say it would encourage people to keep buying expensive imported oil, instead of conserving. Lastly, they believe such a tax holiday wouldn't provide much relief for families who feel squeezed by current economic conditions.
Barack Obama has said all along this is nothing more than a political "gimmick." Top House Democrats – including Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Chairman of the Financial Services Committee Barney Frank – have also come out against these proposals.
But, Clinton and McCain don't seem to be paying much attention to the critics. Meanwhile Goldman Sachs is out with a report today that crude oil could rise to as much as $200 per barrel within the next 2 years. Where are Clinton and McCain on that? The answer is: nowhere. They're trying to buy your vote for 18 cents a gallon for three months.
Here’s my question to you: What does it mean when more than 200 economists say the McCain-Clinton gas-tax holiday is a bad idea?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Paul from Columbia, South Carolina writes:
Raise the gas tax to raise the funds to develop alternative energies and keep every cent raised out of the grubby hands of the politicians. Then, send the incumbents packing. Want real "change"? This is the way to get it started. Fire the whole damn bunch.
Greg from Oak Park, Illinois writes:
Well, sir, that depends. In Clintonland, it means Hillary is correct and she's facing a vast economics-wing conspiracy. In this reality, it means that it's an incredibly dumb idea that has no chance of passing and would lay off thousands of road construction workers who, in all probability, would prefer to stay employed and feed their families. But don't worry about it, Jack. In a month, she'll just say she misspoke.
Peter from Fairview, Texas writes:
Those over 200 economists must still be employed. They can afford to speculate on ideas and concepts and if they are wrong so what? No blood, no foul. I will take any help I can get and even if it is only .18 cents a gallon I will take it. Only a fool would deny .18 cents off at the pumps and I am willing to bet those same 200 economists will not refuse the discount when they pay for their gasoline either.
Randy from Woodstock, Illinois writes:
Most economists say it’s a bad idea because that’s what it is, a bad idea! In Illinois, where I am from, they tried it. They cut the gas tax and the price just went up!
Samantha writes:The weekend or summer tax-free gas proposals are only minor help. I want a candidate to come forward and say:
(1) we are too dependent on foreign countries and their prices
(2) we need more off-shore drilling off U.S. coasts, and
(3) what about immediately starting more oil refineries and implementing wind mill powered energy.
Brad from Chicago writes:
Jack, I completely agree with you, but I hope you’re wrong because watching you eat an Exxon station would be very entertaining.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
It means that no matter who they are for in the election, they have to tell the American public the truth. Humm-kind of makes one wonder why Hillary can't do the same,
Get ready America if she is elected–she will tell you anything to get your vote knowing it won't come to pass. Give me truth every time!
It means that what Obama says is in fact true. Its a gimmick to get votes, but in the end of no real value to the problem it pretends to address.
How about a really novel idea? Promote conservation until alternative fuels and higher fuel requirements of the auto industry take place?
It means they will say ANYTHING to get your vote. Plain and simple.
It means that Obama isn't willing to pander to voters the way McCain and Clinton are. It means Obama is willing to risk honesty in the face of possibly losing his bid for the White House. And it means that Americans have a clear example of what these candidates are about and must now take responsibility for America's destiny with their vote.
Well, sir, that depends.
In Clintonland, it means Hillary is correct and she's facing a vast economics wing conspiracy.
In this reality, it means that it's an incredibly dumb idea that has no chance of passing and would lay off thousands of road construction workers who, in all probability, would prefer to stay employed and feed their families.
But don't worry about it, Jack. In a month she'll just say she misspoke.
Greg
Oak Park, IL
Jack,
Your questions lately are so loaded... why don't you just tell us what you think and save us all the trouble of writing to you.
Sonoma, CA
It means that the people who make decisions about money doesn't have any idea what a little relief would mean to people who are seeing everything doubling in price. Who says that you can't offer a gas tax relief, and also work on the problem of high gas price , and oil consumption, and outr dependence on oil all at the same time that a lot of Amerricans are getting a break, even though it is a small one, it would be appreciated. What is Obama's plan? .I've been waiting for days to see if he can come up with anything better, and haven't heard a word yet so if this is your way of taking a swipe at Hillary, it didn't work !!
Those over 200 economists must still be employed. They can afford to speculate on ideas and concepts and if they are wrong so what? They were wrong no blood no foul. I will take any help I can get and even if it is only .18 cents a gallon I will take it. Only a fool would deny .18 cents off at the pumps and I am willing to bet those same 200 economists will not refuse the discount when they pay for their gasoline either. If a person uses a lot of gasoline and you add up .18 cents per gallon it does make a difference. I have to laugh when I hear Obama say it will only save people 30 dollars a month. How the hell could he possibly know how much gasoline I use? In diesel this year on my farm I will use close to 5000 gallons. Do the math. That is 5000 times .18 cents. That equals 900 dollars. That is a lot of money to me Jack.
It means that McCain and Clinton are showing us they have the ability con some of the people some of the time.
The US needs sound judgement and intelligent leadership. The US needs Obama.
I think I would stick with what the economists are saying Jack. Also didn't they do something like this in Illinois when Obama was in the legislature there? He supported it but it did not work if I recall. Maybe this guy learns from his mistakes so as not to repeat them. I don't think that is a ad quality in a President.
Jenny Rome Ga
It only mean "Politics as usual". No different than most of the other rhetoric that has spewed from most candidates over the years. Have never been able to figure out why we as a people never hold these folks accountable. But I am truly dismayed in this case where the thought seems to be "they're too dumb to figure it out, will get me some votes."
You don't need to be a Nobel Prize winner to do that simple math....BUT I (and I'm sure any othere, even YOU jack) will often drive out of our way to save 1 or 2 cents a gallon....something is better than the nothing Obama suggests, and $70 will put a big dent in my electric bill.
Hillary and Mccain will say anything that sounds good to get elected . We cant even control the rising cost of gas , why do we think that we can control 18 cents gas tax break from these blood gulping oil companies? All these companies have to do is just send a text message across reading "oil prices up twenty buck" and gain nineteen dollars seventeen two cents. Thx for a miserable eighteen cents save.
It means that Hillary and McCain will say anything to get your vote. The gas tax is there to provide funds to maintain the roadways so you can safely drive on them. Unfortunately,the politicians keep stealing the money for other favored pork projects. The economists have the right idea. Stop making promises that you can't keep!
It means that it is a bad idea.
people criticize obama for dropping support for this but they also forget that the bill in IL failed, so why would he put his name on a similar bill now that will fail and that is basically as was said a political gimmick, i mean give me a break Obama is pushing for a 1000$ tax credit for families thats a lot more than the 30-60$ that the gas holiday will save people... Whats funny is they are using this gas holiday as if its going to stop the gas prices from moving
If you pay 3.50 gallon and they do the gas holiday, whats to say gas prices tommarrow won't be 3.68 just to compensate ... considering prices are continuing to rise.
The week end or summer tax free gas proposals are only minor help; I want a candidate to come forward and say (1) we are too dependent on foreign countries, and their prices (2) we need more off-shore drilling off US coasts, and (3) what about starting immediately more oil refineries and implementing wind mill powered energy. We had enough "temp./quick fixes" out of bush...a little tax break check now and then....and that has not helped or cured the future needs".
Jack
This gas tax holiday is a bad idea, lets not get spoiled this is reality I dont see the gas price going back down any time soon. The price of crude looks like it will remain at $ 100.00 plus a barrel. Thanks George you have done a real good job for two terms.
Well it means, assuming that the 200 economists are being objective, that the Clinton-Mccain proposal is what Obama says it is-a political ploy to prey on the hopes of those paying record prices. In other words, a trick.
Hillary claims to be so smart....her gas tax ploy proves smart doesn't mean you aren't a trickster. She lost my vote.
Dave,
Escondido, CA
I wonder how hard it would be to find 200 who thought it was a good idea. I don't think it is a good idea but there doesn't seem to be any better ideas out there.
I wish there was a little enthusiasm for anti trust hearings,that would be a better idea, but the petroeum companies have the upper hand.
Obama has not a clue. So nothing will change.
We've had eight years of an administration that has ignored logic, science and the opinions of experts, and look at the mess we're in.
Now we have two candidates, Clinton and McCain, who ignore the logical conclusions of experts in order to trick voters into voting for them. Bush promised everyone a check for either $300 or $600 if they voted for him in 2000 and it worked. Apparently Clinton and McCain think they can win with the same hat trick for just a few cents per gallon. The scary part is that a huge block of voters will fall for this tactic every time a politician dangles that carrot under their nose.
Remember, Hillary is never wrong! Hopefully, the voters in North Carolina and Indiana know pandering and ;desperation when they see it!
What does it mean? It means that McCain and Hillary think they can buy my vote for about $50. Either that, or they think I am too stupid or lazy to do the calculation. – John, Rocky River, Ohio
It sounds more and more like the double speak of the current president, look where that got us!!!
gas tax break ? what ? em 18 cents? big deal!! ha ha ha ha.
jack , you know they cant fool all of us all the time.
It means that McCain and Clinton and the old school politicians that play by the old campaign guidelines.
Promise, promise, promise then don't deliver. Find an issue that resonates (no matter how absurd – gas tax) and use it to to define yourself as the savior and the opponent as Satan himself.
Most of us know that the $30 we'd save over the summer is nonsense. The storyline that the oil companies will incur that cost is nonsense.
If any of the candidates REALLY wanted to get my attention they say something like the following"
"As of today we will no longer ship all of our Alaskan Crude to Korea. It is this Nation's natural resource. We will find a way to survive on our own resources and, also effective immediately, we are absorbing all American oil companies into the Department of Energy. Within one year, the price of gas will be under $1 per gallon. Also, all oil company windfalls will be taken by our Government and applied to alternative fuel research programs. And finally, beginning in 2009 American automobile makers can not produce a passenger vehicle that gets under 35 miles per gallon. No imports will be allowed for passenger vehicles receiving under 40 mpg."
Anything else is just smoke and mirrors. Unfortunately we dont have a candidate with the cojones to stand up like this. (no matter what the CLinton camp would have you believe)
Jack, you answered your own question. What is MEANS is that votes can be bought with empty promises and sadly, many voters will be wafted away by the scent of financial succor, floating on their memories of the halcyon days of the Clinton administration until they slam into the ground of reality when the oil company just charges the consumer the difference to protect their profits.
Jack,
Mostly it means that Clinton and McCain agree on something and want it to happen in spite of the good advice provided by those wiser about such things. Gee, I can't imagine a situation when a President has done exactly the opposite of what anyone with a brain would have done can you? Oh that's right, sending troops into a country looking for weapons that don't exist and the President was told don't exist by UN inspectors.
On the bright side, Clinton and McCain agreeing makes Obama look pretty smart right now. Just as an aside, it is also interesting that the two "old pros" from Washington, think that this is a good plan (how sleeping in the White House makes one an expert politician is still beyond me). Shockingly the pundits are saying both McCain and Clinton will need to buy votes to be successful in their respective campaigns.
Hi Jack:
It is a bad idea firstly, the oil companies will charge more for the fuel. Secondly, people tend to be like heards of cattle. If it is less expensive, they will drive more, there by driving up the cost.
The reason we have the housing peoblem is because people did not entertain the consequences of signing those mortgage papers when they bought their homes. Now allot of them are are losing their homes. The American people need to think about what they are doing before they do it. Instead they react, and we have allot of these problems.
Ron K. San Diego
When that many economists agree on something it must be correct. Fifteen years ago I wanted to raise the federal gasoline tax one dollar to promote conservation and to bolster the highway infrastructure. Fifteen years later we still have politicians pandering to the greed of the population and the country continues to suffer for it.
LMAO! In a month she'll just say she misspoke... no it's never a lie or a gimmick to grab votes, it's just that she misspeaks so often... what are we up to now 4-5 lies... opps i mean misspoken statements
It's Bushonomics 10: Cutting taxes is the answer to everything.
Unfortunately there is no Bushonomics 102 to say what to do when
there are no more taxes to cut. By the way Jack, I'm sure that eating
an Exxon station won't solve the problem either, it'll give you terrible
gas and that would be very taxing on your coworkers.
It means exactly what anyone with a modicum of financial sense knew right from the get-go: a gas tax holiday is an asinine attempt to lower rapidly soaring gas prices. It means that the "untested" junior senator has the best economic sense – or at least advisers. But beyond the political ramifications, the long-term economic effects are clear: Americans are going to have to adjust to higher gas prices, traveling in our own personal pollution mobiles less, and truly funding alternative fuels. Other post-industrial nations around the world already pay more than $10 a gallon; it shouldn't surprise us that we're headed that way. And no gas tax holiday is going to stop this climb.
My 18 mile commute from my Long Island suburb home into NYC takes over 40 minutes a day so Jack here's my proposal: Why not put the country on a four day work week for the summer months to save gas and relieve road congestion. Also consider cars in traffic running the air conditioning as well as the air pollution factor in the summer. With productivity enhancements most American workers can easily do the 5th day of work at home if they had to. It also gives parents greater flexibility to be with their children (family values anyone?) It's obvious that any common sense solution which does not allow for the already high gas consumption rate to continue flies in the face of corporate interests that love the high fuel consumption and high profit scenario which we are in. Common sense? Corporations? Politicians?..now that would be something!
Too bad Americans did not listen to some of us who said "don't buy the Suburbans, SUVS, etc., go w/high mileage cars". Americans get what we deserve as we are selfish folks.
We are becoming a backward nation concerned about Celebrity be it in Hollywood or Politics. 9.3 Trillion Dollars in debt and still have earmarks for ridiculous stupid matters that only help the politician/& or his/her family pocketbook. Ben Frankllin would of called it "thieves of the American taxpayers".
Jack J
Portland Oregon
It means that even if Obama is out of touch with the middle class, Clinton is clearly out of touch with reality. We trust economists because they've dedicated their entire lives to studying the economy. If we can expect anyone to predict the effectiveness of an economic program, it'd be them.
I don't know what voters in Indiana and North Carolina will decide, but if 200 meteorologysts tell me to wear a warm coat today, I would probably wear two.
It means that McCain has no clue and Clinton is banking on the fact that the majority of voters in the upcoming contests are uneducated about the implications of the gas tax gimmick. Clinton has shown time and time again that she is an expert at preying on the fears and frustrations of Americans in order to gain a few more votes.
Obama is right the big oil companies will just jack up the prices to make up the 18 cents and when the holiday is over leave it and make us pay even more, Clinton and McCain's plan just don't wash ,just like if they were president their plans won't work,except keep Bush's plan of destruction alive.
Hi Jack:
No it is not a good idea. It will only get more expensive by doing that. The American people need to start boycotting gasoline two or three days a week. And just buy what you need so you don't do allot of extra driving. Don't fill your tank.
The only way to send a clear message to the oil companies is to not buy the gas. Let them choke on it. Then they will bring down the price.
Ron K. San Diego
when one goes to college, i think it's to apply the principles learned in the four walls of the classrooms theoritically . I guess that doesnt apply in the White House (WH). Maybe, there is a WH university that we don't know about , because, many that move in there or even aspire to live there do not think like the rest of us anymore. Epidemic ...they call it.Hillary already had the virus , and now its almost past remision.
Why is it that educated, intelligent and talented people who listen to other educated, intelligent and talented people are bad? Where was I when that happened?
Regardless, neither McCain, Clinton or Obama will be President this summer, so this whole 'gas tax holiday' argument is just ludicrous. Even if they could wave a magic wand and make gas cheaper by 18 cents a gallon without jeopardizing our infrastructure, Americans need more meaningful financial relief than just $50 or so over three months. I could save more than that by buying generic soda pop for three months. When they can save us, say, $1.50 a gallon, then we can talk about real relief at the pump.
P.S. Why isn't anyone talking about how it was Hillary's husband who raised the gas tax by almost a nickel in the 90's? Heck, why doesn't she go all out and say how she was against it from the start but didn't say anything to anyone until it was politically advantageous to do so?
It means that the McCain/Clinton machine is operating in the dark again as usual. If the laws could be passed in time (and nothing happens that fast in congress) and the cost of the tax passed on to the oil companies, they would increase the price of gas by the same amount to cover the cost and we would gain nothing. This is not even a good gimmick. Anyone with a half functioning brain can see that it is a scam!
Don't you know, Jack? Those Nobel laureates are the most elitist of them all! In fact, anyone who knows more than I do about a subject and has the audacity to bring it up is being elitist. Why, just the other day my wife accused me of not cooking the pasta thoroughly enough. I scolded her for her elitist comments and was absolutely shocked when I briefly consulted my cookbooks to find more of the same elitist attitude. It seems like everyone is out of touch with the difficulty I experience with cooking pasta.
It says that there exist people who vote with their emotions instead of logic. Even Hillary Clinton herself admits that she isn't listening to economists. And people vote for her to fix the economy!
We need to stop rewarding politicians for telling us what we want to hear, and only reward them for telling us what we NEED to hear! In this case, Obama is the only candidate who's right.
However, to be fair about it, Obama was guilty of this when he supported driver licenses for illegal aliens. So my message to the American people is: Let's get this one right, and vote for the candidate who is the most honest.
After all, didn't the GAO catch the Bush Administration in over 900 false statements (lies)? And didn't Bill Clinton himself get impeached for lying? Unfortunately, if we refused to vote for a candidate who lies, then we'd have no president. So let's vote for the most honest candidate!
Jack this is a waste of time. I make under 30K a year and can care less about a bogus tax cut that will save me $70. I can't believe I haven't heard anyone talking about a government regulated gas price. It's not the price per barrel!! The oil company profits are the highest in history! Just cut all the profits! Monopolize the industry like the electrical or natural gas companies. It would be a huge overhall but it needs to happen if the oil industry is going to cause world war. When WWIII happens over oil I want the owners of the oil companies on the front line along with the politians that have not thought of this. When are you going to start the Cafferty/Dobbs campaign!? Obama 08!!-Martin from Chicago!!
I means that economists are elitist, unless of course they agree with McCain and Hillary and then they are "regular folks".
It also means that pandering is a political Olympic-equivalent sport and THE WINNER IS .. It's a tie!!!!
Wendy
San Rafael, CA
Jack,
Hillary is never for what is right or good for American people; she is just for her own ambition, nothing more. She said she doesn't care what the economists say; she is just concerned with pandering that will get her elected any how. It is only left for America to choose to be fooled by her deceitful antics.
Jack
Most of us don't need an economist to figure this one out. It's 100% pure pandering for votes. It's a desperation move by a desperate candidate.
How many times is Hillary going to spend that tax she intends to impose on oil companies profits anyway?
Jack, it validates McCain's self-evalutaion as an economics dummy and Hillary's public perception as a candidate who will say anything to get elected, and it raises serious concerns that Obama may be an honest politician – and therefore unelectable.
First of all, in the real world, it isn't going to happen and they know it. Second, McCain doesn't know squat about economics anyway but Hillary does, so he's just being dumb but she's actually lying again. Why do people even listen to these two is beyond me? Use the brain God gave you for a change folks.
It tells me that McCain and Clinton can't buy enough votes with their own money so they are now going to use our money. It must be nice to reach into someone else's wallet whenever you want/need to buy something (or someone).
It means they didn't do a research to see if this had been tried in America before putting a crazy idea into the American people. It means you have 2 of the three candidates who are only thinking of themselves and their biggest goal is the "White House" and not "my house."
Just go to show you Hillary will do anything to get elected and this is a true and current occurrence going on right now here in North Carolina.
Hillary Clinton's campaign in Fayetteville, NC payed people 60 dollars a piece to put her name up on streets.....they all were African American people that didnt have much money and needed to make the cash. I cant believe she would sink that low. If someone was not a supporter of me I wouldn not pay them to stand out and hold a sign. That's dirty if you ask me....She figure she sway African American voters by doing what she is doing I cant believe this...shame on her.
Goes to show you that Hillary Clinton will do whatever it takes to get elected. The sad part about the whole situation is that the American people seem to fall for this type of politics every election. In 2004 George W. Bush scared us to death and in 2008 Hillary Clinton will try and bribe us. Wake up and smell the political coffee America.
Does the phrase "I'm from the government and I'm here to help." ring a bell?
Jack,
What really bothers me most about this "holiday" is that Clinton and McCain act as though it could happen right now if not for Obama being opposed. It is such political nonsense. If Congress is against it and Bush is against it, then who really cares what Clinton and McCain say because they can't DO ANYTHING about it anyway. This is just typical dangle the carrot politics to secure votes and then we'll never hear about it again. Senator Clinton, I'll tell you what. Take my $10 a month savings and put it towards our national debt. At least I know I'll be doing something constructive for our nation.
It's about time you reported on the moronic gas tax holiday. But you decided to wait until after the NC/Indiana primaries so you can keep Billary's chances alive. You wasted lots of coverage on Rev. Wrong instead of covering the real issues like the gas tax holiday and obliterating Iran. Y'all use to be biased for Obama, but you are now way too biased in favor of Hillary.
It means that I'm not crazy! I did the math. I unfortunately have to commute to work everyday in my car. I fill up twice a week. .18 cents off would give me a savings of $5.76 per week (based on a 16 gallon fill-up), which will be a savings of $23.04 a month. Now, I would like to ask the $109 million dollar woman and the man who married a billionaire...what the heck am I supposed to do with a whopping $23 dollars! I'll take it, but expect way more than!
It tells me this Jack,
As with all of the major problems facing this nation, our elected officials are not interested in real solutions. Hard solutions to problems do not translate into votes at the poles. Give me a tax break to purchase a high efficiency vehicle and give my employer an incentive to allow me to work from home. Now we are talking about real money Jack.
Well, it could temporarily save drivers money that they then could spend on other products, which is what we need in a recession. But until the US nationalizes the oil companies, like PEMEX in Mexico, we are in for outrageous prices and profit taking by these corporate thugs.
But what this is about is just more Hillary bashing, isn't it? If Obama were for it that would be quite different, right?
Clinton wants the votes counted in Michigan and Florida , I think that if Michigan and Florida had followed the rules their votes would have been counted, and if Hillary had followed the rules she would have never been on the ballots since they knew that the votes would not count. Now she wants those votes, wrong you should not get any because you broke the rules.
It's because Hillary and McCain are not telling the American people "the catch" to their holiday tax break. Well at least McCain is smart enough not to try to depend on the oil company to pay for the fuel taxes. Not bad for a guy who admits not knowing anything about the economy. But for Hillary to stand firm in the ideal that the oil company paying the fuel tax without them raising the gas prices to make up the difference is naive.
I believe that most Americans are savvy enough to figure out the math on this issue, Jack. That is why the economists feel that the plan is a bad ideal. It's a band-aid fix to make them feel like they are making a change, but in the "long term" it does nothing. We don't need $30 more to travel further on a summer vacation. We need gas prices to go down so that we can get to work every day.
This just shows you how out of touch Hillary and McCain are with the American people, and how "elitist" they are because they want to just give us a patch job without solving the bigger issues...
Thank you Barack Obama for being honest with the American people even when its not politically correct.
Obama 08
Politicians using bad policy to buy votes? Please Jack, stick to the real issues, like Rev. Wright.
It means there isn't any relief to be had with this idea. People keep saying Obama doesn't understand the pinch they are feeling. I think he does understand, and that's his point. This would never happen, and if it did it would have either no effect on the average person or perhaps even a negative effect.
Jack it means that Hillary doesn't listen to the Economists on the gas tax issue and she didn't read and listen to the expert reports on going into Irag either. So she voted with McCain to go to WAR and now she voted with McCain to stop the GAS TAXES for three months.
The Clinton's never do learn do they always WRONG !
Wake up Indiana and vote to get rid of her – she is an idiot !!!!!!!!
It means what a lot of folks have already been saying - Hillary and McCain are out of touch with reality. Ignoring world renowned experts has to be the epitome of "elitist" snobbery. The temporary gas-tax repeal is just another electioneering, vote-getting trick. It is reminiscent of the old "the-more-you-spend-the more-you-save" mind-set, which plays right into Hillary's "Goldi-nomics" philosophy: "ignore the experts because I know whats best." If Hillary so easily dimisses expert advice over a gallon of gasline, how do we know that she (and McCain) won't ignore the experts with regard to other critical military/foreign/domestic affairs???
Jack, it simply means that the truth is being told. Saying what is appropriate just win an election, is only taking us two steps backward. The American people not only deserve to hear the truth about our problems, but we need to hear the truth about our solutions to our problems.
It means the Clinton/'McCain proposals of dumping the gas tax is pandering of the highest order. First, it has to pass The
Senate and the House... It won't. Second, another bill must be passed to tax excess profits. That won't happen either. MJust put together a real proposal in the first place, one that the House and Senate can embrace...such as the one Sen Obama has proposed. In our area, work is underway on our major bridgeas for the first time in decades. When Hillary gets here to campaign, she better keep her mouth shut about taking roads and bridges money in order to get a 5% discount on gas.
It simply means Jack that the few dollars that is being offered cannot buy ;Jack ; to feed any family, and it totally is a means to get the voters attention OH MONEY BACK just to deceive them into voting for her , that is so selfish and transparent please voters DO NOT FALL FOR THIS, we need a long term solution and Sen Obama offers this and more.
What does it mean when Obama camp is now sending out mailers to Kentucky voters promising them clean coal plants–plants that will take at least a decade to build–and then the Obama camp files the mailer under "Obama's own pander". Looks like even the Obama camp recognizes Obama is the same old kind of politician! RB in PA
Jack,
When 200 economists say that this McCain/Clinton gas tax cut holiday political gimmck is a really stupid idea meant only to help the two elitist panderers then the masses should pay attention. Don't we already have a president who is too arrogant and ignorant to listen to the experts? Can we really afford another?
To me it means several things; like they are out of touch with reality and will tell people anything they want to hear to get votes. It means that the people who believed this and voted for Clinton or McCain are not too sharp about wanting to hear the truth because they either are afraid to vote for a black man and can use this as an excuse to vote for Clinton or they are more gulliable than they realize.
It means that Clinton and McCain are two peas out of the same pod, that being the pod of idiots. The idea of saving $28 over a few months and creating more demand on foreign oil, thus driving up the price even further makes no sense at all. Rest assured, Jack, you won't have to worry about eating an Exxon station.
Wenatchee, WA
Jack,
It means a gas tax holiday would do nothing to solve the long term problem. Clinton and McCain are are stuck on short term solutions and even their own advisors admit the holiday would do nothing to fix the problem. How can these two be taken seriously when their not looking to the future. Let me put it like this, being unemployed I could effectivly rob a liquor store to give me some immediate relief but in the long term I would be doing more harm to myself than good. So where's the solution? If McCain and Clinton are unwilling to listen to their own advisors and willing to completely disregard economist nation wide, on this economical issue, why should American's like me take them seriously when it comes to promises they make for a better future.
It shows that Clinton and McCain are exactly like Bush in that they will do anything they think will get them votes. They both, like Bush don't care to listen to highly respected people if truth gets in the way of the two of them getting what the want. It also shows they are banking on the voters to be easily hoodwinked.. Please voters wake up and see that this kind of thinking got us into a terrible war that seems without end.
Instead of a gas-tax 'holiday', why don't McHillary let some HOT AIR out from their gas-bags; it is time these two 'experienced'[a.k.a 'seasoned liars'] politicians learn to tell the truth from the 'junior' senator!
It means that we can reject science and reason and go with Hillary's "gut", or we can take a rational approach to the huge challenges we're facing as Americans. Maybe it's finally time to grow up.
Hey Jack
I am surprised by the people who wrote in to say they want 18 cents off their gas.
they don't care about how many people will be laid off and can't provide for their families.
Well that's the American way (some Americans) all me me me me me!
Cinti, Ohio Indite Rumsfield
Jack, gas in my area went up to $3.75 a gallon today. Should the next president be (heaven forbid) McBush, or McClinton, gas will be .50 higher than it is right now. It will have no bearing on this summer, as Hillary say to the people "you deserve a break, this summer". The oil president Bush) will still be in office this summer. She really is saying anything to get a vote.
hillary and john will have 4 years to take a few courses in basic math and economics.
The gas tax holiday is in keeping with the tax rebates now being issued to taxpayers. The problem with the gas tax holiday is the same as with the tax rebates. They are nearly the equivalent of just printing more dollar bills; sometimes called deficit financing. The big question is how would we pull out of Iraq without having an economic recession? The obvious answer is invade another country.
Bruce Brunton
Vancouver, Canada
jack didn't bill clinton do something like this during his administration and did not work then and it is not going to work in the long run. i can't take hillary seriously at this point. it is sad that people are in need and look to her for assistance and she is giving them nothing but meaning less words,
This only proves what many have known all along: they're idiots, Clinton and McCain. Just goes to show that "experience" will make them do anything for my vote. Memo to McClinton: We're not idiots. Stop patronizing us.
Senator Clinton is trying to do something to help all the suffering people with these high gas prices.
Obama has absolutely no plan to help with the gas or anything else. He just talks, talks, talks but no one really knows what his stand is on this or any other issue.
I think he'll be great for this country...no nothing, no experience president. Just what we need at a critical time.
M. Brown, Dallas, Tx.
Jack, economics is a cross between alchemy and palm reading. If economists were all that good at predicting the future wouldn't we be in much better shape now? The fact that 200 economists can agree on anything is a miracle in itself, and means that they have it wrong for sure.
Jack
Why doesn't someone ask a independant truck driver who spends about a grand to fill their rig about the gas tax holiday. I'm sure you get a different answer from them. Who knows it may even bring down the price of arugala.
It means that people who actually know what they are talking about are speaking up. Politicians just blather about things that sound good.
Anne
Texas
...and while we're on the subject....do they really expect us to believe that oil companies are going to pay the .18 cent tax. Do the math...if you take savings $70 that Clinton claims and multiply that by 3 million drivers per state – that's $210 million that an oil company will magically pay. Multiply that by 50 states and that's $10.5 billion!!! Are we really supposed to believe than any oil company is going to part with $10.5 billion without passing on the cost to the consumer. I would like to know what Clinton's accountant is smoking...we all need some!
Jack-simply means the cost for a vote is getting cheaper-much like the income of most middle class America-as the oil companies like to say "Show me the love" and sure enough Clinton and McCain are more than eager to accomodate-I thought prostitution was illegal but perhaps I'm wrong. Truth is you can screw some of the people some of the time but not all of the people all of the time. Somebody smart once said that.
That they work for the oil industry????
The McCain-Clinton gas tax holiday won't work because George Bush is still President until January 2009 and there's nothing in Dubbya's past petrolium policies to indicate that he'll be giving any such compassionately conservative gasoline price reduction to drivers this Summer season. Next year's proposed gas tax holiday is still a long way off in political promises.
It means that Hillary wins in Indiana–nothing more. We know that half of the voters don't pay attention to facts.
Boise
It means it is a bad idea, the oil companies will just increase prices.
It means they are unable to admit they are wrong.
It means they are unable to listen to experts who devote their lives to an industry and its history and make sound decisions.
It means they are both just like... wait for it... Bush!
If it works, I'll eat an Exxon station along with you.
Clinton wants the votes and again she is lying when is she going to stop all the lyes,I guess NEVER she is worst than Bush
Where have the economists beennnnn on extended vacation all of a sudden they want to possible say something about what we should'nt have been doing like going into debt taxing people giving their money away you ask what does it mean .
I like Mr. Carvilles answer If you want to be an economists be an economist if you want to be an american be an american.
Gene , Tampa Fl.
if it sounds good i don't mind hearing it . That don't mean i believe it. That is what they should be talking about in the first place, rather than waste-spend my donation money on adverts attacking each other.
apparently,it means john and hillary can't afford an economic advisor.
It means they are not big business lobbyists pumping money and support into Clinton or McCain for future considerations.
In my opinion it seems as if Senator Hillary Clinton is going for the Big Lie again even if it means going with Senator John McCain. Obama still thinks that its moral to tell the truth, and the truth may just lose him the nomination.
Jack,
In any corrective action process, you must determine a short-term, intermediate, and long-term solution to the problem before you. The short-term solution in this case should be capping oil company profits and investigate price-gouging by the major oil companies in the mean time to ensure they are not in cahoots with each other to drill the money out of our pockets. If it is discovered that they ripped the American citizenry off, then they should be fined to the nth degree. As an intermediate solution, Obama’s plan of tax credits is a great way to give some help to the citizenry. A long-term solution would be reducing the use of foreign oil and produce the energy right here in the USA. A tax holiday does nothing but leads us further down the road to disaster. Funds for highway repairs are already in jeopardy. Giving us a “holiday” for a mere pittance does not make fiscal or practical sense…ask the people of Minnesota the cost of not fixing the roads.
It means Clinton & Cain are tricksters and they're full of gas. You won't have to eat the Exxon station Jack.
Hillary and John appear to be forming a coalition. Now, that would be an interesting dream-team(more like a nightmare-pair)
Jack, let me have a shot at this! Does it mean that McCain and Clinton are just pandering to us? Or does it mean they have Oil stocks in their portfolios and would like to see some more outrageous profits? Of course Hillary said she would have the oil companies pay for the tax, do you think that might get passed along to us? I think what the economist actually mean is for America to elect a President that doesn't pander!
It means that it's a bad idea. On the other hand I could find 200 scientists who say the Earth is 6000 years old, and probably thousands who say that global warming is a hoax. I doubt that this is a similar situation, but I like to play devil's advocate. Oh, and I completely agree with the economists, this is one of the worst ideas since ethanol fuel, which was the worst idea since hydrogen fuel. Now if only Congress would support alternative fuels that don't pretend to be eco-friendly while destroying the environment and crippling economies and food supplies behind the curtain. I guess that would be too much to ask of politicians.
It means someone is operating with a brain. The "gas tax holiday," so called, amounts to about 30 cents a day. As I went about my business on Monday, I tried to find items I could buy for 30 cents. After having no luck buying a postage stamp, a local newspaper, pre-packaged noodles, generic cat food or a single roll of toilet paper, I was about to give up when I discovered I could get 36 minutes of time at a parking meter outside the thrift store where I look for clothes. We need a long term fix, not a feel good, campaign crumb.
It just means Clinton will do anything to impress the voters. This is a sham idea anyway. What killed me was John McCain said Americans could use the extra $30 to maybe take a little vacation. This would hardly cover a cheap breakfast and lunch on the road. These rich folks McCain and Clinton have not the slightest understanding of the struggles of ordinary people. Obama does because he has experienced poverty in his lifetime.
It means Hillary is insulting the intelligence of the "middle class" . This is one more factor the Super Delegates need to take into consideration when they name their support.
It means it is a bad idea. It also means that two of the candidates are not listening. In addition it means that more than 50% of America is not listening and can be bought for a pittance.
How many of these economists are responsible for the mess we're in today? I haven't been too impressed with economists. They were nothing more than bobble heads for Bush.
You should have eaten most of the exxon stations by now if you keep your words, jack. You are so hopeless.
Latest News on the Election – Mexico and Canada will conduct primaries and WILL COUNT. The number of delegates needed for the nomination has now reached 2,800,000. In a press conference, the Clintons argued that Mexico and Canada are part of the AMerican continent and MUST count. As you are already aware, the Clinton have an advantage with hispanic and with middle class. The primaries has been scheduled for Dec. 25, 2008.
Nobody has had the courage to let the Clintons know that the Primaries have been over for a while.....
Well, Jack. It seems Delta Airlines doesn't seem to mind passing on fuel costs to sappy consumer like me....I just paid $28 just to check my two bags – lucky me. I don't care what the economists say; if that gas tax holiday covers even the littlest thing – like the 28 bucks I'm out for deciding to bring 2 suitcases – well I'll take it! Besides, where were these damn bookworms and number crunchers when we really needed – before the economy went south! I can't even believe we're fighting about this.
Anyone on here who's saying "wait a minute, 18 cents a gallon is still money saved" does not understand the problem, and that's the media's fault. Reporters keep saying "economists are against this," but don't take the time to explain WHY. Here's what they're saying: Remove the tax, and within 1-3 WEEKS, more people will buy gas, which means demand will go up. Demand goes up, and prices go up as well, perhaps to a higher TOTAL RATE than what consumers were paying with the gas tax. Now, you have a situation where the oil companies are getting all of the increased profit, and those tax monies do not exist to pay for road and bridge maintence.
The reason NO ONE stands behind this proposal is because it's indefensable. Within a few weeks, no one will benefit from this proposal except the oil companies.
If anyone actually thinks that they're going to save a dime on a "tax holiday", then they're not looking at the facts.
The gasoline vendors already know that Americans can (and will) pay the current amount. If the tax gets repealed, they're going to charge more.
It's not pretty, but it's pretty basic in terms of economics. If you don't believe me, look at what happened in Pittsburgh when parking taxes were forced down (hint: The parking garages earned a bigger margin)
If you have a bad tooth, you go to a dentist because he's an expert professional on teeth. Likewise a barber/beautician for hair/makeup. Economists are expert professionals on the economy. This is what they do. If not even ONE economist has sided with the Clinton/McCain idea then this should say something to you. Last time I checked, these two are politicians. I would not take their advice over a doctor's if I were sick. The point is: if every economist that has reviewed the plan says it is bad, and the only two people who feel it's a great idea are the two who are looking for votes, then it only take a few brain cells to understand that this is a GIMMICK. I just refuse to believe that Clinton and McCain are better than ALL the other economist and politicians who have judged this plan as not being a good one.
PS: Not to mention, Hillary record on telling us the straight truth isn't a good one.
Jack I can probably find you well over 200 economists who say that Obama and Clinton's healthcare plans are disasterous. Will you eat a hospital if either of their plans get passed?
Any great leader knows that they must hear what the "experts" have to say but in the end they must make the right decision for the people they serve. Economists have largely attacked Sen. Clinton's plan for immediate gas tax relief because it's not permanent. In the meantime, they know full well it wasn't meant to be and that she has, by far, the best long-term plan as well.
Under her immediate plan, there would be a wide-range of relief in dollars, depending on whether one driving to and from work a couple miles or fifty miles a day. And there are other driving needs as well. For example, my husband and I have had to cut out the driving to our grandchildren's little league games because we live in a rural area and the driving costs for these games alone is about $80 – $100 a month. And we are by no means alone in having to live on a tight budget these days! Truckers, farmers, all those whose livelihood depends on fuel would be very grateful for the immediate gas tax relief.
Meanwhile, Sen. Obama sits idly by with his long-term (that is, years and years away) plan with absolutely no plan for immediate relief!
The gas tax will do absolutely nothing at the pump. I know it's going to hurt our economy even worse in the long run–especially with this already existing Stimulas package. It's sort of like taking a pain killer after your leg breaks, ya it'll take the edge off, but the problem is still very much there!
This is all a cheap attempt to buy votes. The economics of it are all way out of whack.
My question to both Clinton and McCain would be: If immediate gas price relief is so important, why haven't either of them even proposed the idea as concrete legislation? They are both senators last I checked...
Hmmm...Maybe John McCain should pick Hillary has his running mate.
What this means is that people have to stop thinking only of themselves and look at the bigger picture. Are people bold enough to do that? I see others on this blog whining about how every little bit helps...well, how about those construction workers who will be out of a job? How about the oil companies making even more money?? There is no guarantee that this savings will even be passed on to us!! They said that they will just increase the price of gas just to make up the difference. How could all these economists be wrong? Anyone who thinks this would be a good idea has NO idea how the economy works and I feel sorry for them. That's all Jack.
Molly, Military wife stationed in Italy
Jack,
It means that neither McCain nor Clinton is prepared to listen to an economist. With an economy to rebuild, that is scary.
It also means that only one out of three candidates will shoot straight with the public.
I say This is the day to select Mr. Obama as the best hope for America, and to let the other two be swept away in the rivers of their own self-adoration.
At first, she said "tax holiday"...when it was pointed out that construction workers could lose their jobs, she came up with "we will have the oil companies pay the tax." Why not just tax windfall profits now and invest toward a comprehensive energy strategy...Congress could do this now.
Well, as for McCain, he already said he does not know economics......
Jack,
It means Hillary and McCain pockets would jingle again!
I wonder, how much do Hillary and Mc Cain personally, spend for gas that comes out of their wallets?
Do you know what kind of car and miles they drive for personal business?
Make that "over 201 economists," including me. If the Clinton-McCain pair really believe that dropping the gas tax until the election will help the economy, they are displaying their ignorance both of the effect on gas prices, and of the gullibility of the voters.
It means its a bad idea! And that some politicians will do and/or say anything for a vote. The sad thing is that we know that they are pandering to us and that 99% of waht they say will never come home, but we vote for them anyway. No surprise that we end up with leaders like George Bush.
This whole gas tax relief is just a sham to get votes and to have Hillary say that she doesn't agree with the economists (those who make their living studing the economy) shows just what an arrogant elitist she is. Rather than taking the advice of experts, she disbelieves them – hmmm sounds striking familiar to Bush. The fact is, neither she nor Mcain can have the gas taxes eliminated until 2009 when one of them might become president. To promise that they will eliminate the summer gas taxes this year as presidental nominees is all smoke and mirrors; they can do nothing until they are elected president, and then it would be up to Congress, not them.
So all they are doing is trying to buy votes and fool the gullable American public.
Jack this is how I really feel.
(1.) Who's paying the economists?
(2.) What does Mccain know that Bush might do?
(3.) And Hillary is a2nd term Senator and has a few more smarts than Obama.
My guess is many people in the US could use a few more dollars. Than... "the rich" and "the educated" that Obama is picking up. Some of the seniors, and the poor could use a couple of extra dollars.
Edith in Oregon
Regardless of the accuracy of economics as a whole, these 200 economists are experts in predicting the impact of market forces/events on the economy. Last I checked, neither McCain nor Clinton were expert economists. If you have the arrogance to ignore people smarter than you, then you should not be the leader of a country. Hopefully, the American people will listen to the people who have devoted their lives to the study of economics, and reflect such in their votes.
Being an Econ major and living in a city whose economy runs mainly from investment in oil sands from American companies, I can guarantee you that these companies are investing money in such an expensive procedure because they have these candidates in their pockets and therefore know that the price of oil is going no where but up.
American people need to understand that the world needs them against the rising threats from countries such as China and Russia and therefore need to choose a candidate that will lift the economy up and not be in the pockets of lobbyists.
Being an Econ major and living in a city whose economy runs mainly from investment in oil sands from American companies, I can guarantee you that these companies are investing money in such an expensive procedure because they have these candidates in their pockets and therefore know that the price of oil is going no where but up.
American people need to understand that the world needs them against the rising threats from countries such as China and Russia and therefore need to choose a candidate that will lift the economy up and not be in the pockets of lobbyists.
Calgary, Canada
It means McCain and Clinton represent more of the same: "Elitist" politicians rejecting the advice of the experts to pursue their own political agenda. Isn't this how we got into this mess in Iraq? If only Bush had listened to Colin Powell...
I'm ready for some honesty, even if its not convenient to my comfortable American life style. Thank you Mr. Obama for your honesty.
If Clinton or McCain want my vote how about an income Tax Holiday. This makes as much sense as what they are proposing. That would help me offset these outrageous gas & food prices.
Sameer
It means as long as they can buy gas, They will buy gas and complain till they get behind the wheel, and of they go But some day when they are hungry and no money for gas,beer, and smokes, Then (MAYBE) they will wake up But don't count on it. We are too spoiled.
It means they are not electable. And their experience is worth 1 cent.
I just find it funny that Obama voted for this same kind of thing 3 times as an Illinois state senator, but now he's "against" the whole idea and has since voted to keep giving tax breaks to the oil companies. But we are all supposed to believe he is just looking out for our best interests. Yeah right!
The 200 economist are more than likely Obama supporters. Also if any of you out there think that a president has anything to do to fix the gas problem you can think again because they CAN NOT do anything.
History says that every time the government gets involved with the economy they goon it up even worst. They are all pandering when they say they will fix gas prices or the economy. Clinton on the stump in California primary said Bush was pathetic for being in Saudia Arabia trying to get oil prices down and now she is saying the same thing, my memory is not that short.
It means that Hillary and McCain are hot-air populists who say anything to get their foot in the door so they can continue running our country into the ground. Lies and b ***t. If our educational system did its job, maybe people wouldn't be so prone to believing that crap, and politicians like these two might have to start cleaning up their act.
Pam, San Francisco
It means that 200 economists are no smarter than Obama, how can we trust economists today? I think about the savings for Police cars, fire trucks, taxi cabs, truck drivers and a lot of people who have to travel 50 miles one way to work each day, I think that is sure going to save more than $28,00 for those people. We all know it is not long term but none of the candidates can do anything long term until they sit in the White House, so all these plans are just talk right now, wait until Congress gets hold of their ideas!!
Rose
AZ
Here is a novel idea. Let the government take over the fuel industry,
and regulate it like public utilities are regulated. The price of natural gas, electricity, or telephone service cannot go up without PUC approval. Fuel that drives the nation should be just as important and accessible.
It means it's a terrible idea. Now, if she could promise a free scoop of ice cream with every fillup, I think that idea would have promise.
People should wake up! No one will see ANY savings this summer. McBush and Clinton do not have the power to do anything and are making promises they can't keep. I would hope people would be smart enough to realize this, but I have my doubts.
it means that McCain and Clinton are dumb. The only thing that will spur change in this country with regard to oil consumption is high prices. If we lower them, people will forget, and the consumption will resume.
The sad part is americans no this is a gimmick and still wont listen. Remember President Bush got reelected with lies and gimmicks
What good is $70 going to do me when I have to spend $250 to fix the flat tire and $600 to fix my bent axle caused by running over the unfilled potholes in the street?
To MAP, who goes out of his way to save a penny or two per gallon:
For a 20 gallon fill, and 20mpg car, if you go more than a mile to save a penny, you've just spent more than you would if you just paid the extra penny.
It means North Carolina and Indiana better wake up today and vote for Obama.
The thought that two presidential canidates are trying to hoodwink poor Americans in favor of big oil should tell anyone with half a brain whom to vote for.
No taxes means no money to repair roads and bridges, leaving at the same time big oil to keep boosting their profits and I for one am not going to drive over a cliff that had once been a federal bridge.
What would be better is say the price of one gallon is a single dollar which stays at that price for a year, generating more taxes on fuel at that price. Big oil made their money now they can live with a sacrafise worth their profits. Forget McCain and Clinton they can sit on the unemployment line or work as a gas jockey.
Barstow, Ca
It is a "gimmick" they do this every so often here in Florida and all it really does is make people save a couple bucks and feel better about spending money because they didn't have to pay taxes on something. I'd rather they keep my $28 to $70 and use the money to better fund the schools, better help our veteren once they return home IE fix the GI bills so it pays for school, or fix the VA problems, fix our roads and bridges.
I do not understand why Obama worshipers started to worship Big Oil over sudden. These are only businesses that can tolerate tax hike. Exxon/Mobil CEO Mr. Lee Raymond received a $400 million retirement package. Retirement package! These guys can afford even bigger tax hike.
Jack:
It means that Clinton-McCain think the American people are stupid. And judging by the 2004 election results, they may be right. That 30 cent-a-day gas tax "holiday" will lower my power bill this month from $190.75 to $190.45. Maybe I'll buy some oil stocks with the savings.
I just had to comment on the farmer saying how a gas tax holiday would save him $900. Firstly, that was if he got the holiday for the whole year. What is worst, farmers get a gas tax rebate on their income tax, so that's even a bigger untruth. He'll get the tax back anyway. Tell the truth!
At a time when the Democrats are trying to differntiate themselves from Republicans, it is very funny to me that McCain and Hillary have such similar plans.
Even Hillary doesn't believe it, otherwise she would have actually introduced legislation to make it happen. And what kind of idiot politician is going to seriously make a proposal that will gaurantee a jump in gas prices by 18 cents two months before an election. This once again shows the underbelly of the voters who are willing to take a handout from government NOW even if they will pay triple the amount in interest on the debt. And, who thinks the windfall tax will actually be paid out of corporate profits, they will simply pass it down the line and SHAZZAM up goes the price of gas to where it was the day before. Idiots. Again, I think there are a few other elected officials who would actually have to comply with this stupid proposal.
It is pretty simple...our gas demand has NOT gone down in correlation to gas prices rising. Americans are not driving less because of high gas prices, they are reducing spending in other areas. The money spent on the gas tax will be spent in other parts of the economy...not a bad thing.
The only risk here is with oil speculators. The tax holiday will give speculators the excuse to drive up oil prices using the delusion of higher demand.
Look at the numbers..our demand has NOT decreased because of high prices...our demand will NOT go up because of cheaper prices.
It only sounds to me that they want my vote!!
Well, that'll be a cold day for either, but especially for MCWAR!!
Both of them will panda, panda, panda for any way to win!! OH, that's a bear, isn't it!! They must think we're all hibernating if they think we'll fall for more of their bull!!!
Oh, how ELITIST, Clinton and McCain!! These two are clearly demonstrating they believe the American people are just too stupid to understand their rouse!
Thank you, Barack Obama, for refusing to jump on the bandwagon. Again, another display of courage under (political) fire by Obama. Noticed and much appreciated.
-Kelly
NY, NY
Hi Jack,
I think it speaks volumes. I commend Obama for having the guts to say something that maybe some people didn't want to hear....but nevertheless.......the truth. Funny how that works........politicians who tell us the truths that we don't want to hear, unfortunately, don't get elected like Ross Perot on Medicare and Social Security and Walter Mondale on having to raise taxes, which happened anyway.
By the way, you're the only reason I watch the Situation Room and I sure hope you didn't catch hell from the producers about your comment yesterday about Americans being ticked off. Whether the producers liked it or not, you were exactly right and it was the biggest laugh I've had in a week!
Steve in SC
The big three gives a buy out to former employees. Rehires new employees for 14 bucks and hour with reduced benefits and continues to make big SUV's and BIG trucks and wonder why their sales are in the gutter. People have been talking about how oil will eventually dry up and now we know it's true. The guy/gal making 14 bucks an hour can't even buy the car they're building. Greed has raised it's ugly head and it ain't pretty. And it will get worse before it gets better, regardless of which Democrat wins the presidency.
People should ask themselves: 1- How much will $.18/gallon save me over the summer months? This is barely a 5% savings. And as time goes by it will be even a smaller savings. 2 – Now, ask yourself the question: Which candidates are proposing this gas tax cut and making it sound like a big break for the American People. Know the amount of the savings and what Clinton is making of this. Do you think she is doing what is good for America or, do you think that she is making this small, temporary offset to gas prices as an attempt to make you think this is more that it really is ? People, you have to think. Obama is telling the truth about this. Why would he want to keep money from the people knowing that it might hurt his nomination? Because he is the most honest man I have seen in public service that I have seen in 50 years. Stop and think. Peace.
Bill Reddin of CA. I dont know you, but you said the truth. I am a Hilary Clinton supporter, but lately, I have decided to vote for Obama for the same reason you expressed below. This guy is willing risk everything just to say the truth, but it looks like we Americans dont like to hear the truth. We jump on issues without carefuly understanding the underlining factors. Hilary and Mccain are old Washington politicians who would do anything to get our votes. I did not realise that from the beginning. I was one of those who jumped in the Hilary camp without knowing what I was doing until she "mispoke" about her visit in Bosnia.
I thank Jack for rasing such a salient question. And I think the media should do a better job scrutinizing these candidates including Obama. We want a president who will say the truth, even at the expense of his or her life.
Read what Bill wrote:
It means that Obama isn’t willing to pander to voters the way McCain and Clinton are. It means Obama is willing to risk honesty in the face of possibly losing his bid for the White House. And it means that Americans have a clear example of what these candidates are about and must now take responsibility for America’s destiny with their vote.
Sidiki, Philadelphia, PA
Jack,
I think that when 200 people in our country agree on something, it's definatly worth listening to them. Seriously though, how is an extra $30 bucks saved by this gas tax holiday going to help a low income American family? Maybe they could have a nice dinner at McDonalds, because that's all it will buy.
The public is so against Clinton but forget that Obama proposed the same thing when he was in the Illinoiis legiislature. Trying to paint Hillary as the only one that does not tell the right facts as proposed by the know it all rich economists is untrue. The others are not telling us what the truth us or is hiding it from of us because we are not questioning them.
where were these economists when they watched the upward ride of home prices and flow of american money to China? I really don't believe we are going to drive much more with this mini incentive. But atleast we will know these Oil giants are not getting away with a windfall when we are suffering.
What it means is that somebody has a problem. If Clinton and McCain come up with an Idea and present it to the people, then its good for them. If 200 economists do not have a better idea or have one and wont present it to the people, the economist should stay out of it. Kind of like voting, if you dont vote, dont talk. Clinton and McCain are "trying" to do something good for the country which is on a slippery slope at this point in time. Be it the economist, Obama, Pelosi, Frank or whoever, if they dont have a better idea...find one or else.
Sadly, not one of the three have a clue. Hillary and McCain are old school "throw em' a bone and promise the world", Obama has no plan. You can't conserve you way out of this one. Oil is the fuel for another 30 years or so until the technology is able to be implemented,
(hydrogen/electric). WE only have about 30% of our oil coming from domestic sources. A real president would have the Corps of Engineers on their way to Alaska tonight to start setting up the drilling rigs. A real president would treat this like the national emergency that it is. We don't have a real president and we don't have a potential real president in the wings. Unless this is treated like the catastrophie that it is, our economy will collapse in 1-2 years. No enegry=no jobs=no health care= no tax revenue= no social services=anarchy. get yer guns while you can!!
The gas tax holiday is a joke for a vote. I'd rather see a tax holiday that will last longer than 3 months. All I can do is buy a bag of skittles with the savings that the tax cut Hilliary and McCain is trying to propose.
With Bush it means its time to hire 200 new economists.
It means that this is a bad idea...
It's easy to be angry with Clinton and McCain for sticking to their guns on this issue when their plans are so obviously flawed, but can you blame them? The sad but true fact is that there are just too many people who will believe what they want to hear, which is exactly what these two candidates are counting on. People are convinced that this would actually lower the price of gas when the reality is that the oil companies would just jack up the price to make up the difference. Obama's own personal experience tells him that this is true. He said, and I quote, "I learned from a mistake."
When was the last time you heard a politician say that? Wake up, America.
Hi Jack,
It just means Hillary & John are FULL of BS!!!! It also shows how strong Obama really can be for us small time Americans all over the USA.
Margie
Queen Creek, Az.
There's no doubt that sometimes the economists can be wrong, but this is not one of them. Calling people who devote their intellect, time and energy to the study of this should not be written off as "elitist." If the gas prices were not so high, if people were not so upset about it, Clinton and McCain would have been laughed away.
My own research agrees with what you are saying- simply put!
Just goes to show how Hilary Clinton continues to prey on the uninformed. She continues to show the Ameican people that she will do and say anything to get to into that oval office.
Hilary, the American people are not as stupid as you think regarding this "Gas Tax" gimmick!
1st) – It;s been tried and failed – ask Barack Obama.
2nd) – It's already May, so what makes you think the American people would believe that goverment would get anything done that swiftly for the American people – hell, it took Washington 5 months to release a stimulus check and people are still waiting – Check in the mail!
3rd) – Gas prices have been rising the whole time you've been campaigning, now that you are behind and in a pickle you decide you want to think about the American voters needs?
What a joke you continue to be – How about this, quit trying to play on the American voters intelligence for a change and be straight with us! If you really want to help, find some real solutions and quite the lip service and mindless dribble – it's easy for people to see straight thru you when we are outsiders looking in. . .
Food for thought. . .
C. Wade – St. Louis, MO
Jack I completely agree. Normally McCain is against this sort of pandering but on this issue he is acting like every other politician out there. Even worse Hilary wants to unfairly target the energy companies to pay for her idea. If you look at their rate of return they don't make any more return on their investment than most other industries. While I remain a McCain supporter, Obama comes out looking like the only sensible one on this issue.
Are these the same Economists who are responsible for the recession we are in today?
It means absolutely nothing, Jack. The gas tax is 18 cents per gallon. Workers often drive over 100 mi per day to thier jobs. Just a few cents per day is a savings that count for many blue collar workers. Hillary's plan calls for oil companies to pay the gas tax so it would not take away any money used for road repair. This gas tax holiday is only meant to provide relief for a short time but Hillary has a comprehensive plan for the long term. Economists and Obama do not understand working class people and are out of touch with working americans.
It means that Clinton thinks that the American public doesn't remember Economics 101 (which, sadly enough, most of them probably don't). The cost of a tax, no matter whether it is enacted on the company or the consumer, is distributed in essentially the same way because companies will either raise prices to make up for the tax or consumers will reduce consumption to offset the price increase.
It means that, just like George W. Bush who wouldn't listen to economists, scientists, or generals, Hillary and McCain won't listen to differing, expert opinions either. If they have better economic insights than the world's top economists, what "crystal ball" are Hillary and McCain using? Thank goodness Obama had the courage to rightfully call it a "gimmick."
It tells you it's politics as usual. The professionals the candidates SHOULD be listening to, are being ignored for political expediency. Hillary is living up to her motto of "Whatever it takes to make me appear as if I actually have a chance to win"
It means most Americans will fall for it as they are too busy watching The Bachelor and American Idol to do any thinking for themselves. They voted Bush in for a second term, nothing they do from here on out will surprise me.
It means that it is a bad idea. PERIOD! For three months, one can save a few pennies on their gas fill-ups while disgorging their bucks to gouging oil interest. My question to you is: Why is President Bush disliking his own country over that of Iraq? Why does he allow his oil buddies to engage in carving up America when it was Iraq that his oil buddies were carving up when it came to partitioning oil fields for perspective oil interests. Bush simply allows the economy to go poorly at the expense of profiteering oil companies. What was the saying, As goes GM, so goes the country! Well, GM is doing abysmally! Does Bush know that cars run on gasoline and does he realize that high gas prices mean fewer cars being purchased from GM? What is George W. Bush's name in Iraqi because he seems more favorable to them than he does to his own people! I guess that W. is truly a scavenger toward his own people, no matter the price to himself or his country: Oil!Oil, my country for oil!
All you need to do is take a look at the last politician to frequently shoot down the advise of experts – George W. Bush. I wonder if Clinton and McCain also disagree with their "expert" and "elitist" doctors, mechanics, and cable guys.
It means it is time to rethink what it means to be an American and what can be done to improve the quality of our leaders. We must find a way to attract brighter more forward thinking people into the ranks of public service. The current candidates know how to campaign and win an election... but they have no clue how to develop and implement public policy that meets the needs of the country as a whole... that has never been more obvious than with this dumb and shortsighted idea... I hate to say this... but voter apathy is hard to resist when you read ideas like this..
Simply put...It means NOTHING to them obviously!
It means politics as usual. The politicians smell a gimmick that could buy some votes....forget about the fact that what they're saying is a lie and they know it....and they'll go right on saying it with a big ole' grin on their face.
It saddens me that this Democratic race has come down to "issues" that aren't even real issues. It it the old smoke and mirrors effect. I was not an Obama support from the beginning but my candidate is no longer in the race. Obama has CONSISTENTLY talked about change and the fact that he is willing to be truthful with people about something like this proposed gas-tax holiday is proof he isn't the old Washington insider.
The question is, is the American public too desperate and/or to enamoured with Hillary to cut through all the bull. It is definitely getting deep enough to need a shovel!
Ask Obama he tried it in his home state and no he claims no one else should try it. ELITIST!!!!
Jack, It simply means that Politicians don't listen to the people that they should be listening to. They listen to their campain managers and not the people that have to insight to move us in the right direction as a country. If they did we wouldn't be where we are today, in the tank!! What people need to ask is where will the money come from? If we take it away from gas we will have to replace it somewhere else. I'm from Minneapolis I can tell you where it will come from, OUR BRIDGES!! Americans need to ask themselves, are we willing to sell our children and our safety for .18cents a gallon? Keep reporting the truth and reality news Jack, I'm glad somebody besides John Stewart is! Sincerely, Kate Minneapolis Mn.
It amazes me that people cannot see through the same old Washington politics. Has anyone realized that neither Hillary Clinton or John McCain are not president the last time I checked and cannot follow through with their proposed "holiday"? I'm sure that we all agree that the two oilmen that run the White House would never pass anything to help the "lowly" American public.
I do not understand how Hillary Clinton can call Barack Obama "elitist" when she thinks the general public is so dumb that we can't see through the "I'll say anything to get elected"?
I am interested to know why the news media hasn't seen fit to tell the public that her tax holiday would never pass the desk of Bush. When are we going to see true unbiased news that is equal to all sides?
Vickie
Bend Oregon
to me its seems like obama right its the same old politics played by
in this case grandpa monster and the what many have come to call the good witch from new york
Hey Jack:
Tell all the overpaid economist to get off their chairs and find a solution to the problem instead of complaining and attacking others who are trying to help. I am not a Hillary fan; but, I have to give it to her, she is proposing something. All these politicians and professionals stop complaining and do something constructive.
Maybe the Government should really get active by creating an alternative company than can compete with big oil inorder to keep the market competitive.
What it means is obvious: 1. Neither candidate knows anything about economics; 2. Both McCain and Clinton are desperate to win the Oval office; and 3. Both McCain and Clinton would not do a very good job getting us out of a recession but just the opposite. It also tells me that John McCain and Hillary Clinton would be very hard to work with, if one was trying to counsel them on this and other issuses.
Hey, they both receive money from the oil companies; Obama does not. Also, Obama consults with the experts and listens to their advice. Hummmmmmmmm? Makes one think.
What does it mean when 200 economists say the gas tax holiday is a bad idea? Jack, I suppose it means just that. How many economists HAVEN'T said it's a bad idea? I happen to think it's a bad idea but what matters is what all the voters trying to decide between gas and food or medicine think. They're the ones who will answer the question.
Robbin
It says that Hillary and John McCain have spent so much time in Washington they're no longer in touch with reality. They both believe that voters are so dumb that they can come up with this simplistic so called "gas tax holiday" and we will think that they're actually doing something about gas prices. I think they both should get to work actually proposing some long term solutions to our dependence on foreign oil.
This is a perfect example of how McCain and Clinton represent the corrupt autocracy that is run by commercial business. I'm sure a whopping 17 cents a gallon in savings is really going to save the Straight Talk Express enough money to come into the presidency with a surplus!!
God help this country.
VOTE OBAMA!!!!!!
McCain has a plan... it's the same plan that the Replubicans have been pushing for years and no Demo's want to hear it... Strart more drilling on our soil! Just like the liberals don't want more power plants... how well did that work out for California?
Are those the same 200 Economists that warned us about the Sub-Prime Mortgage Crisis? It means that Hillary & McCain are concerned about the situation and are searching for answers. It may not work, but at least they are putting themselves out there on the "Front Line" to start the discussion. They may both get shot at for it, and maybe even shot down because of it, but it just shows me that they are more concerned about the problem than their image.
Jack,
We have 3 political parties (Democratic, Republican and Clinton) and we have one University called Clintoniac. In Clinton party and Clintoniac University, the message, the math, the truth are moving targets. They have their own definition of blue collar voters: "people with no education and that they can mislead and lie to" and get their votes. It is amazing that in this 21st century, we still think that we can lie, mislead and play games with no regret as long as we get the votes. You will see tonight, the so-called blue collars, will vote for her and the reason is not known.
Chantilly, Virginia
Well, what has common sense and intelligence got to do with politics? As a life-long Democrat, I'm sick of Hillary's pandoring to the same nonsensical whims that she accuses the Republicans of. Obama is right, but will it cost him votes? Of course it will.
People in this country want a quick painless fix for everything. After over 50 years around this planet I've learned that most true "fixes" are neither painless nor quick. My father taught me that anything worth doing was worth doing right: what happened to THAT pholosophy? Until people start educating themselves about the issues, the sound bites beat the economists every time. We need a 12-Step Program for voters!
I see how Hillary wants to work this. First we talk corporations like Exxon and Shell into not raising prices to protect their stock price to cover them paying a windfall profit tax. Then we invade every single OPEC country to end the cartel. Then we all get on board a boat with Bill and Hillary for a vacation on Fantasy Island. Imagine if she is actually elected now after saying this idiotic stuff.
Wow Barrack Obama tells the truth to the american people and Hillary and Mccain try to buy there votes, why has it taken this long to pick a nominee the anwser is pretty obivous to me.
Billary continues to get on the band wagon when ever she thinks something sounds good! What's wrong with this women?
It will take me $28.00 to get out of my development and I'm a half a block to the main street!
Jack you need your own show! Get away from Lou Dobbs, his cronie Cameron, and Wolf!
You are the ONLY one that keeps it real no matter what< no hidden agenda with you!
They too are afraid of change! If Obama wins this election I would not give them the time of day ( an interview) The only thing they are missing are their sheets!
CF, Obama girl!
Ohio is now the 1950's of the South!
What scares me the most is not the candidates but the American public. After all, we (not me!) put Bush in office not once but twice. I hate to admit it but Americans are gullible and believe whatever they hear and see via the media without doing their own due diligence. American's should have to take a quizz before they can vote. A simple quizz to ensure they have done their homework on the candidates.
The 18 cents a gallon or 30 dollars a month relief that the very few people who think this isn't political pandering is best case scenario. Realistically gas prices will go up, not down. The price of oil is still going up and no tax holiday is going to change that. Also the only relief the tax holiday brings is to the refineries, whose profits have been going down and will most likely use this opportunity to jack up prices during a period without the gas tax. This idea is completely blatant ploy for votes. This may not be a big gotcha scandal for the talking heads but for god sakes will someone show some journalistic responsibility? Here, an actual REAL ISSUE and only a select few are talking about it? Absurd.
Are these the same 200 economists that said that the housing prices might falter in some small areas but would never decline across the country and that the mortgage market was sound and that the banks were not in any danger of losing money on their packaged mortgages? The gas tax reduction on its face is senseless for all of the stated reasons, but if the brightest kids in the class (or at least 200 of them) tell me it's bad, I might have to change my mind.
$200 a barrel in the next 2 years!? I pray that doesn't happen but if it does, I sure hope this nation wakes up and does something to force our government to change how things are done with the oil companies. Hillary and McCain are just showing their true colors of the same old Washington we all know and hate. Hopefully Obama can make real change happen.
Given Senators Clinton's judgment (or lack thereof) on the Iraq war vote, is it any wonder that she supports the so-called gas tax holiday. Notice a trend ... adopt a bad Republican idea and support it for poll driven, policitial reasons. What about the thousands of highway jobs that will be lost? How more bridges must collapse?
I bet "Big Oil" executives are rolling on the floor laughing at the people who vote for Hillary because of this silly gas tax holiday that will never happen. People of IN and NC, please, show America that you're smarter than this! 200+ economists vs. the dynanic duo of Hillary Clintion and John McCain (new BFFs against Obama). I believe the economists.
Economists predict, politicians react, and "Joe Six Pack" pays whether either are right or wrong!
It proves that although Barack Obama knows that his position on the tax holiday may not be the popular one, it is the TRUTH and the truth is not always easy to take.
The real question is why are so many people willing to believe these two even though deep inside they know it is wrong? Did Bush damage the very IQ levels in this country so badly that you can tell people ANYTHING and they will believe it? Seems so doesn't it?
Jack,
Perhaps just as importantly as what it does mean is what it certainly does not mean: that McCain and Clinton are anything other than your run-of-the-mill pandering party. These two politicians - the same ones who'll decry Barack Obama for being "out of touch" with the middle class - can't come to grips with the fact that these pennies off each gallon will translate into millions pocketed by oil companies? Give me a break. They're looking for votes. You know it. I know it. We all know it.
These two are the status quo duo.
Steve
Hi Jack, i think that the answer to your question is simple. The fact the 200 economists including supports of Clinton and republicans say that the gas tax holiday is a bad idea means that they are simply sending a message to both the Clinton and Macain campagn that they do not understand anything about the economy and that they are simply trying to use the American people by buying their votes for $30 after three months. The american people are not stupid, they know that niether Macain nor Clinton will succeed Bush this summer.
Hi Jack,
Lets be real -neither McCain or Hillary can approve a gas holiday this summer, that takes more horsepower than either one has yet. Next its just plain pandering and typical political posturing to get votes. The most important thing is the loss of revenue will not help but hurt our national debt as well as dig into our ability to maintain our road inferstructure. Obama has this one right! When you get over 200 economists to agree on something, someone ought to listen!!!
Ed,
Katy TX
Jack,
Why don't you let the voters decide about the gas tax and Hillary instead of you trying to slant the primaries against Hillary. It is a known fact that you do not like Hillary Clinton. You take every opportunity to downgrade her ideas. I always thought that jounalists were to be impartial. Why don't you let the voters decide what they want. We don't know what economists were used and what their motivation is in this. From what I understand, the traders manipulated the market in favor of Enron. Isn't it just possible that the economists can do the same thing . Stay of it Jack and let the the primaries play out.
I am an economist and i dont agree with them – not withstanding that most economist work for lobby firms/current government and are paid to say what they say etc. A gas tax holiday has the following benefits.
1. Infuses the economy – whenever you give money back to people it increases spending in other areas other than one fascet of industry which is a a simple monetary policy solution to boosting the economy.
2. The act will decrease transportation costs- lowering retails prices which also increases spending. When prices are lowered, people are encouraged to spend. This again is a monetary policy used to infuse the economy and lower an inflationary environment.
3. People’s confidence in the economy creates jobs from business that would benefit from such a break. People are usually laid off when a company feels that they can no longer afford COP – cost of production/operation costs. A tax break creates an environment of lowered prices (COP and COO – cost of operation) be it temporary but the break allows business owners to boost their business and hence employment. I think the tax break should be longer than the summer.
My reasons can go on and on especially in terms of monetary policy. Plus i can site historical benefits. Everyone who studied economics understands a temporary economic boost. (by the way I am a Cambridge University Graduate)
Last but not least and on the political front – It shows Hillary has a heart like her husband's – she is in touch with people’s daily needs and understands what must be done economically.
thanks – debra
Bought Gas this morning at $3.52.9 and when passing the station just a short time ago the same regular gas was $3.69.9 – a $0.17 cent increase in a just a few short hours. By the time a gas tax holiday would be put into effect it appears that the price at the pumps would already have increased by far more than the tax. The point is that it appears the the pump prices are set to go sky high and any increase in demand would just serve further to push up the prices.
Real help is needed now before we are crushed by Oil Giants and their limitless greed!
Pressure OPEC and that might make a real difference instead of a smoke and mirrors political game that will only last for three months.
The Economists are right this time!
It means that its a small idea in a country that needs big ones. It isn't going to happen anyway. McCains idea doesn't work because it'll cost road workers their jobs and since the bridge collapse in Mpls all I heard is we need more money to fix bridges. Hillary will pay for it with a windfall profits tax on Big Oil...yeah, like Bush would sign that and give up his seat in the Oilman's hall of Fame.
hey jack you can sit behind that desk and try to tell the working people how to vote but they're not dumb. 20 cents on a gallon makes me drive on down the road to get my gas. so losen your tie and take care of your hemmoroids and tell us why you hate Clinton so bad. she can take your butt down anytime..RIGHT?...hey voters don't let the media scare you. don't it just tickle your butt when jack gets all worked up over CLINTON? go out vote for CLINTON and after the election we can take CNN from our dish package....if you agree with me blog it ....vote clinton 08... thelma, ky.
i don't have much to say, if a candidate knowingly misiform the voters in indiana and north carolina about the gas tax just for the sake of votes, it says a lot about who they are. the clintons have made it clear that they will do anything to get into the white house. even at about 30 cents a day. it doesn't matter if the consequence is a higher gas price and bad roads as a result of the gad tax holiday. obama knows it is a bad idea because it has been tried before in indiana. it is common sense. all i see from senator clinton's performances in indiana and north carolina is a campaign desperate for votes. when someone looks you in the eye and tells you that 40 dollars over three months is good for you, while they know that oil companies will hike prices to compensate for their losses, you need to ask if they are truly on your side
Hillary SHOULD be listening to economists. But of course she knows it all. ... that's why she has such a poorly run campaign where bills go unpaid!
Sen. Clinton is taking the President Bush approach with this gas tax idea, follow your "gut" and ignore the experts. As for me, I rather a long term solution over a short term fix!!
It would mean that if either of them were elected, you would have to take a "gas tax holiday" from your cars. But who knows, mabye a little walking could help clear the hot air that has been inflating their heads for the past few months.
.18 cents a gallon? Please tell me this is a joke. Last I checked people were losing their homes and could not pay their ever increasing mortgage payment. .18 cents/gallon – you can have it.
Jack, bad or good idea something has to be done. I say who ever, Who Ever has an idea but it out there! Drive less I am.. what about the truckers? American's put on your thinking hats and at least propose something ANYTHING!
I am suprised so many people that are willing to sell their votes for such a little amount. Obama say on average people will save $30 bucks a summer. Obviously, this is not the same for everyone, some may save hundreds.... But wait, this is such a bad idea no one will even vote for it. There is no way possible this will be instated this summer!!! So declaring people need help at the pump is true, but this doesn't help anyone but Hillary Clinton.
Jack no offense to you or the 200 economists but it seems if they knew what they were talking about maybe they could prepare Americans for the troubles we have now. So we should not put to much into what they think. As for the Gas Tax Holiday being a gimmick as a few truckers what they think about saving money over three months. I'm sure they would welcome the relief. As soon as Obama stops preaching and come up with a plan of his own he might have a chance to beat McCain if he is nominated.
Looks like Obama is right again. It's time for a change America! Keep up the good work Jack!
my vote can't be bought so cheaply as clinton and mccain think;
further, they could never bring this off and they know it but are
trying to fool the average joe who is frustrated at the gas pump.
I am surprised that Clinton and McCain have not proposed a worldwide moratorium on the the sliding dollar. After all, who cares if economists don't think it is possible. It sounds good and could help get a few more votes.
IN NOVEMBER 2006 GAS WAS $2.08 A GALLON , UNEMPLOYMENT WAS AT 4.8%, WE WERE IN IRAQ. THE DEMS TOOK OVER THE SENATE. WHATS GOTTEN BETTER? NOW THEY WANT TO GIVE ME $.18 OFF ON A GALLON OF GAS. McCAIN/ CLINTON GO AWAY.
I t doesn't come as a surprise, McCain doesn't know anything about the economy, Hillary is playing on her vote base, the old and the uneducated who can't see through the gimmick.
Bottom line: What more proof do you need that we have lost this country to political gimmicks for vote’s and the same old campaign tricks as usual. What’s sad is the public will probably fall for it. The only candidate capable of being an effective president and understanding the complexities of economics is Ron Paul but, sadly, the American people don’t vote on understanding and reason they vote on gimmicks, slogans and empty promises. Not all people, but enough to get another unqualified leader into office. I think Hillary and McCain should retire and stick to Gardening.
Jake
Springfield, IL
Dear Jack,
It's because some people only pay attention to these things every couple of years when there's an election coming up and then all they have to go by is ads on TV...at least that's what my mom says.
Glenn in Woodbury
Shame on you Hillary !!!
Be loyal to the Americans. Not Obama, but You are out of touch for not understanding the real problem of million of Americans. Youhave become a real joke in this campaign. I am not going to buy anything you say Hillary... Enough is Enough....
The poor woman is in denial.....she thought the nomination would be handed to her on a silver plate......so she's using any tactic to get elected.......she's gone from throwing the kitchen sink, to threatening commercials, to shedding alligator tears, to making up sniper fire and exaggerating her experience, to making election promises on gas tax she knows she won't have to keep......maybe she is hoping to become McCain's running mate after all didn't she start off being a Republican!!!!!!!
Obama Is correct. The tax freeze is a diversion of deceit. The oil companies will continue to make profits as well as raise the price of gas. This is just a deceitful ploy to divert the attention of the people away from the real issue, price gouging. Big oil is not interested in how much pain the working class feels at the pump. Gas has gone up at least $1.00 a gallon this year alone. The answer is roll back the prices and the best way to do that is to drive less. More people are turning to mass transportation. Let big oil feel the pinch for a change. The fact that Clinton and McCain would try to get the people to accept such a rediculous offer only shows how stupid they feel the American working class is and that fact alone will give Barack Obama my vote.
The first posted profits this year were almost an 11 billion dollars from only one oil company. So you tell me that they can't roll back prices or they just won't. ? Wake up people. This proposal is not for us but for big oil. And if it passes I'll eat a gas station with Jack.
It means nothing to me if I have 5.00 in my pocket and my house is foreclosing and I have to put a meal on the table.
Some families need help now and the gas tax sounds good. Clintons
short term plan may not be as good as her long time fuel plan but it gives one HOPE. Remember HOPE ? Obama used to believe in it.
Jack
Sounds to me like 2 of the 3 candidates need to go back and take economics 101 again and the voters better start looking at the real issues and not all of these smoke screens they keep throwing at us.
Jack, What it means is they are right,, And if McCain and Clinton really cared about the people they would tell them the truth (excuse me I just dodged a burst of sniper fire) instead of all the pandering..
Obama got another one right...
It simply means that Dems have to be careful, otherwise Billary will sell this election to the Republicans which is becoming clearer and clearer everyday... Wake up America!!!
It means what most of us know, a gas tax holiday is just another attempt by Clinton and McCain to buy your vote. Even before I learned the gas tax holiday would put a whopping $28 in my pocket I had doubts about how beneficial it would be. In a reply to those poo pooing "a mere thirty dollars", it has been said that thirty dollars is a lot to most people. That statement alone is a commentary on how desparate people are feeling in our present economy. I drive a VW Jetta TDI Wagon. Why? Because I want economical gas mileage and want to contribute towards less consumption at the gas pumps. But my diesel continues to climb above what gas costs per gallon. We do what we can and then still feel we are dealing with a government who refuses to listen. I have been hearing the terms "alternative fuels" and "alternative technologies" all my life. When will we actually see them in full force? I am waiting still. I become disheartened daily, just as I have been in the past when learning technologies have been patented, bought up by those whose business would be threatened by them, and locked away to guarantee their undevelopement. And our government has allowed this? The gas tax holiday is just the latest absurdity on this subject.
The fact that 200 economists say it's a bad idea means nothing, unless these 200 hundred individuals are representative of the whole community of economists. This very well may be the case, but the article doesn't say. You can find 200 experts from any field who will say just about anything.
The only thing the government can, and arguably should, do to lower gas prices would be to lower the tax. While doing so over the summer may be a gimmick, and the savings modest, I do not see how doing so would not make gas somewhat cheaper... if that is the goal. Certainly the "windfall" profits tax both Democrats propose would only make gas more expensive– not less. Such a tax is worse than a gimmick– it unfairly singles out one industry for greater taxation with no justification. There are plenty of companies that make bigger "windfalls" than the oil companies. This perfectly illustrates how the Democrats use taxation as a way to wage class warfare rather than raise revenue.
It means that McCain and Clinton belong both belong in the same place.
Outside of the White House, that is.
They're obviously buying votes and they're hoping that the masses are too stupid to realize. It will come right around to bite them when Obama gets the nomination and McBush goes crying back to Arizona.
Let's see.
Save $28 once on a gas tax holiday OR
save $1000 yearly on Obama's family tax credit
hmmm
Hi Jack
you are so right on with your analysis of this story. It again proves the short-sideness of both parites. Barack is the only one that can see through the $ signs. We are now paying for the last 7 1/2 years of neglect on researching and developing alternative fules that are both environmentally safe but dont inpact our food supply.We need to be acting right now to prepare for $200 a barrel on the horizon. What then? Maybe the Amish have the right idea.
If Hillary Clinton thinks the gas tax holiday is such a good idea, why has this Senator not put anything before Congress to consider? It seems to me that even she does think it is a good idea, but rather a stump speech message designed to get votes.
Jack:
It seems to me that those "Blue collar" workers are as some suggest; uneducated or worse, deaf! It is like the old saying, 'cut off your nose to spite your face". Well to set the record strait, a blind man could see the difference in this one.
It is called being wise and prudent.
I still heat with oil and pray everyday that the cost of a barrel of oil goes down. A tax holiday between Memorial Day and Labor Day does no good for those who heat their homes for the winter with oil . I would rather wait and use my $1000.00 income tax break to make this purchase...once Obama is President. This is more realistic.
Chicago, IL
We need more oil to meed demand! I haven't heard any candidate actually speak about increasing the supply of oil in America. If you don't want more oil than quit complaining about the price of gas.
Its pretty simple. McCain knows nothing about the economy. Hillary would eat Chelsea if that would enable her a win in this election. But sadly most Americans believe what they are told. Then please tell them that the less than $50 they will save will result in millions less towards infrasructure. Tax increase anyone?
St. Louis, MO
The oil companies will raise gas anyway – whether or not the break is provided.
All these ideas involving how to add a tax holiday, with the Highway Trust fund going broke, blows my mind. In these days of $4 gass, why can't we even have the discussion about an additional mire 2-3 cents a gallon for roads. Our roads system is far from perfect. The current 18 cents is not enough and we are falling behind in maitenance of all roads in the US. Let's drop the dumb idea of breaking the trust fund and get behind the idea of building the trust fund. Talk about a way to stimulate the economy!! George Kulick
Experts are out of touch with reality! Florida has a 10 day sales tax holiday on purchases related to back to school items, why not a tax holiday for gas? No one actually believes that she's promoting this a "cure". Seems to me that if you weren't so biased against Hillary you would realize that the gas tax holiday is simply a launching point for her more permanent plans to deal with the outrageous cost of gas. In fact, she was featured on CNN explaining her long term agenda.
Get out of the studio and talk to REAL people....those voters who believe in Hillary and show it with their votes.
~~Avoid a repeat of 2000: Let FLORIDA'S VOTE COUNT!
Sherri
Clearwater, FL
I've come to expect this line of pandering from Hillary, and I think that McCain is probably just not economically informed. I think that they both are afraid to tell the truth because the truth hurts sometimes. Obama again is the only candidate to give us the honest answers we so desparately need and don't usually get from our politicians.
Old school politics as usual for Hillary and John, truth and change from Obama.
Jack, I have one question. If Senator Clinton does not trust the 200 well renowned economist that opposes her tax-holiday plan, why does she have economic advisors. Sounds like political pandering to me.
POLITICAL PANDERING PLAIN &SIMPLE
All of this means that the Senators are lying and they know they are lying. I wonder if we know?
It means that Clinton and McCain are betting that the American people are not smart enough to figure this out on their own. It means that these two individuals (both millionaires) might be a little out of touch with the reality of the situation, and are playing on peoples fears for votes. Basically, it means they're both politicians running for President.
It means that McCain and Hillary's idea is not inline with what Economists think. We pay too much in taxes and our government spends too much of that money to help themselves get elected. Although this is probably not the best idea, to eliminate the gas tax. No one in their right mind can tell me that the amount of money we pay in taxes is well spent and justifyied. How much was put towards earmarks this past year? How many programs are absolute failures? How much of our money is wasted in unneccesary wars and bad attempts to fix social problems?
Wake up America, we fought a war about two hundred and thirty two years ago, because of taxation and abuses by our government. We fought that war to free ourselves of a governement, that oppresses and rules its people. To create a government that we control, not the British, the Federalists, the Democrats, or the Republicans. Our government is no longer we the people, but it should be. Hate to tell you this but you know what is better for your neighborhood than does someone in Washington. We need to take back our own lives.
Viva Ron Paul.
Those of you that say that the 18 cents will help you do not realize something. The laws of Economics say that if the price of gas is $3.50, that is where the supply can keep up with the demand. If you take away the 18 cents of tax, the price doen't go down to $3.38, like you want to think that it does. The price remains at the equilibrium price of $3.50, and it is the oil companies that get that extra 18 cents. This is a horrible idea that will not save you ANY money.
Pandering?! Purchasing votes?! Ahh, Jack, come on let's get honest about who is pandering whom. These learned and wise sages who are outraged at the idea of a vacation from federal taxes on gas is probably the only vacation I will be taking this year.
Besides, where were all these learned souls before the decision to send out tax rebate checks? Where was their cry to halt such foolishness? The most cogent comment I've heard - and much too late to stop this crazy tactic was from one of your viewers yesterday. The best way to revive the American economy would be to spend our refund at local garage sales.
Could it mean that either/both have a golden opportunity to prove another campaign point: that they, unlike Obama, have the experience and political savvy to get things done. The one who manages to ram this through Congress despite all the opposition may not win points for good sense, but by golly nobody could question his/her ability to get things done.
basic economics:
less use = lower prices
more use = higher prices
make gas prices 18c cheaper and in a week gas prices will rise 10c-15c.
after a month, gas prices will be higher.
All that happens is that the gov't losses money and oil companies get it instead [wow and to think I'm defending the gov't getting money]
Hopefully the people in IN and NC can't have their votes bought for an average svaings of (minus)$18-$50.
It's like saying, sure you can buy my vote and here's a little something for your friends at the oil companies.
I think Senator Casey said it best whe he commented that voters are smart enough to know the difference between cotton candy and a hamburger....and this gas tax holiday is cotton candy.
Clinton and McCain are giving gas tax break to the "rich people" too. This is the stupidest idea I ever heard in this primary season.
Obama already mentioned that he is working with the Senate on another financial package to help the poor weather the financial crisis. It means putting money in the right people's pockets not the rich people who don't need the tax break.
Even if the government takes out the gas tax, the gas price won't go down because of an increase in demand on the oil prices especially during the summer season. Also, oil price will continue to go up due to increase in global demand. People may think they will get the 18 cents. No, they won't.
Because it is.
The unfortunate part is that too many 'working class, blue collar' voters don't know what the word 'economist' means. I think they believe it means 200 Jeremiah Wrights...
The gas tax proposal is pure pandering for the following reasons:
1) Neither Clinton or McCain can enact this since they are not President yet.
2) Neither of them have proposed a Bill in the Senate to make it happen.
Maybe their proposal is for next summer. This implies that the price will be high next year and that they cannot do anything as President to reduces it.
Why is it that the Press does not outline the above?
Victor willems
Jack,
It is apparent that McCain and Clinton are willing to do and say anything for the presidency.
The people complaining about Obama's disinterest in pandering with summertime gas tax relief are the same fools who'll complain in September when the sticker shock hits because of artificially inflated demand.
It says the obvious that has already been stated. "Clinton and McCain are trying to buy votes." They both have economist that work for them so If that may economist have said that this is a bad idea, you can assume that their economist have said the same thing. They do this to look good to the public, when in actuallity it is not saving the consumer that much money. Now I know people will say that it is something, and I agree. But not at the expense of draining money from other projects that need their funds. people have to look at the big picture and not just the immediate impact. I think it is noble to want to help, so not taking that away from either candidate, but not if it will make us more fically irresponsible.
Basically, Hillary has told us she won't listen to economists. She doesn't have an education or background in economics. As President, how can she possibly turn the economy around without listening to the experts. Hillary-"I won't put my lot in with the economists".
We are all ignorant, just on different subjects. Hillary won't admit any ignorance about anything, at least not until after the election.
It is true both (Hillary and McCain) are highly experienced, as they rightly claim and yester years' long experience have taught them how to try to win presidency at any cost, even though it may amount to knowingly deceive electorate.
I'll tell you what this news means Jack. It means that the Obama folks need to get on the stick and get this out before Billary starts lining up their guests for the Lincoln Bedroom.
if these 200 economists were of any value the country wouldn't be in the mess its in. they remind me of the investment brokers who tell you how all the fund they are pushing as done so great and make excuses for the ones they sold you on last year that went for a -- most of the oil the us imports are from Canada and Mexico with the free trade we are committed to sell you the oil. the oil companies are not the ones creating the high prices that is being done by the speculators the oil companies are benefiting but are not controlling i don't think the oil companies will try to pass the 18 cents tax break to the consumers the would probably use it as an opportunity to take the heat off of themselves and transfer it to the speculators
From the web: Cafferty pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident and misdemeanor charges of reckless driving, assault and harassment after striking a cyclist and knocking him off his bike on May 14, 2003. The bicyclist was slightly injured. A traffic officer and several pedestrians ran after Mr. Cafferty's car, but he ran at least two red lights without stopping, according to a police complaint. Cafferty was sentenced to a $250 fine and 70 hours of community service
18 cents a gallon for three months could possibly buy our country the economic downturn we seem to be heading for. Simply put Jack, pandering is alive and kicking.
Hi Jack, Nice to talk to You. When you leave this show I'll never watch it again, because you are the only fair one. If Obama loses this elect. because of the news coverage whichis not fair and balanced ha ha .I started not liking Hillary now I hate her, and I know no one that wants her in. Obama is right and the taxation, but it will not matter. The Clinton's with the 109 million and the other fraud like the unknow income will buy this election, very sad day for all. I'm a white Grandmother of 54 years old, and DID NOT WANT ANOTHER CLINTON IN THE WHITE HOUSE.
It means that Hillary and McCain are doing what the "Politics as Usual" booklet say-lie to the people , as long as you say that you are
patriotic or confused them with issues that really don't matter (like what someone else said) or an issue that have been resolved a very long time ago (like abortion),we'll be ok....heck ...why does America think they spend a generation underfunding schools? So they can lie when they want while we worry about Britney And Paris.You get what you deserve...
If $30 ($50, $100) is so crucial to you over the course of three months, then don't go out to eat just one (ONE!) night and bam – you've saved that $30! Want to save $100? – then don't go out to that expensive steak place that you've been dying to try out. If you can't control yourself, then go out to eat, but don't order cocktails, soda, beer, wine. Just get water. Hey – that's the healthy thing to do right?
Let's see – $100 in my pocket or thousands of jobs lost and inferior road repair service. Hmmm??? If I hit that big pothole just right, I'll have to gout and buy a new tire for my truck anyway, which will be more than $100.
NC and Indiana – please put an end to this democratic nominee race and vote for the candidate who is honest (to a fault even) and can unite the nation as a whole.
Go Obama!
If your name is Hilary Clinton it doesn't mean anything. She's only going to say what she thinks the people want to hear. After all Jack...she is a "working class mother" and seems to forget that she is driven everywhere she goes at the tax payers expense. She has not had to personally buy gas in years! So what does she really care?
There is a concept in Economics called the "Price Elasticity Curve". This theory states that in purelly capatalistic system of open trade, the price of any item is established by the balance of demand and supply of such item. Therefore, if the gas tax is eliminated, the price elasticity of gas will force a sudden demand increase. This increase will eventually lead the a new shift in price towards the original price of gas (more demand = higher prices).
The so called "savings" created by eliminating the tax will promptly disappear, let's say 2 to 3 weeks. Leaving us back to where we started. Tax or no tax, the open trade market price of gasoline is one and the same. This in turn would convert the original taxes into profit for the producers, and ultimately increase the demand for oil.
Instead of this brilliant idea, I would increase gas taxes in order to motivate the development of alternative fuels. Open your eyes America!!
Jack, it means it is a "bad" idea! Senator Clinton will say anything and do anything to be nominated and then, in the fall, she will lose to Senator McCain! What is really funny is that she is going to "smash" OPEC! Right! 🙂