Motorists will pay for energy ’solution’

IF YOU think gasoline costs too much now, just wait until President Bush and Congress get around to solving the energy crisis.

On Monday the president gave a speech touting his plan to reduce gas consumption by 20 percent in the next 10 years. He didn’t say so explicitly, but it’s clear he intends to increase fuel economy standards for cars. Mr. Bush also wants the energy industry to produce more ethanol.


Unfortunately, the president and congressional Democrats may find common ground in the vast cornfields of the Midwest. They seem to be reaching a consensus on some energy issues, especially the drive to replace petroleum-based fuel with corn-based ethanol.

In this instance, bipartisanship is bad news for consumers.

Press-Register (Alabama)