Every time gas gets near $4 a gallon the bureaucrats drag oil company CEO's in front of a panel and question them why oil is so high. They are either stupid or are just doing it to show everybody that they are trying to do something about high gas costs. The sad part is many people think that the bureaucrats really do care about high gas costs, because the bureaucrats are questioning oil company CEO's on the cost of oil, when they have nothing to do with the cost of oil. All they do is research, drill for oil, refine it, and deliver it to a gas station so you can fill your vehicle up, for 7-8 cents profit on a gallon of gas.
There are many other companies that make much more profit on their product, but there is no fussing or complaining over their profits.
Pat, it doesn't matter where the oil comes from, government is going to get their tax revenue. The difference is, if we drill for and extract our own oil, and build more refineries, it will bring prices down for the public, and I think the bureaucrats could care less if that happens. Its all part of bringing the economic level of America down to the rest of the world.