Steve Hanson's Blog

Steve Hanson is the founder and editor of Uppity Wisconsin. He is also a web developer in his spare time.

Eight Ways the Bush Administration Has Caused the Oil Price Boom

Not one of our usual sources, but here's an interesting article from Adam Kritzer at CurrencyExchange.net.

When George W. Bush was sworn in as President in January 2001, the
price of oil was approximately $28 per barrel. By coincidence, 2001
also saw the US import
more oil than it produced domestically for the first time in its
history. In hindsight, perhaps this was an omen. During the tenure of
his administration, oil prices have skyrocketed
to $130 per barrel, and some analysts have predicted that the price
could ultimately settle at $250 or $500, depending on the time frame.
Conspiracy theorists and cynics would correctly point out that the Bush
family and administration insiders have profited from this rise. Even
Bush supporters would have to concede that the administration has
contributed to, if not actively encouraged, the record run-up.

From fiscal policy to energy policy to foreign policy, the Bush
Administration has committed one gaffe after another, and the futures
markets have been quick to react, with devastating economic consequences.
At the same time, there were isolated instances in which the
Administration appeared to be working to relieve prices, and these
efforts should be acknowledged as well. In doing so, the net effect of
his presidency can be distilled from the sundry other factors that
weigh on oil.

Post new comment

The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.

Follow Uppity Wisconsin Lifecasts on Zannel - Text cruiskeen to 58888