In 2000, George W. Bush promised the American people that, if elected president he would “deal with the energy problem.” But, as the average cost of gasoline tops $2 a gallon for the first time ever, the Bush administration still lacks a viable energy strategy. Instead of pursuing a bi-partisan strategy to lower oil prices, the administration reflexively pushes its failed energy legislation written by Vice President Cheney's secret energy task force with the help of former Enron CEO Ken Lay and other oil executives. That bill, which repeatedly has been rejected by Congress, provides billions in subsidies to energy companies and undermines essential environmental regulations but does little to promote conservation or alternative fuels – efforts that would insulate consumers from fossil fuel price spikes. The persistent high prices have padded the profits of oil and gas companies – who have contributed more than $3.5 million to Bush's presidential campaigns. Meanwhile, according to Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D-MI) “the 42-cent rise in average gas prices since Mr. Bush took office had cost consumers $42 billion year.” Because the Bush administration has failed to control costs, the average American is paying is $528 more for energy than they did during the previous administration – more than most received in income tax cuts.

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