Steven Chu Backpedals on Advocacy of European-Level Gas Prices

Recall then-incoming-Energy Secretary Steven Chu's now-infamous 2008 quote to the Wall Street Journal: "Somehow, we have to figure out how to boost the price of gasoline to the levels in Europe." Such a remark was not as politically polarizing at that time, as the political debate more so highlighted the overall state of the economy.

But now, as gas prices linger just below the $4-a-gallon mark -- and as the 2012 election peers around the corner -- such a statement is politically toxic, and reflects poorly on the Obama administration's purported dedication to ameliorating the pain at the pump.

Now, 3 1/2 years later, Mr. Chu is coming dangerously close to achieving his goal, and the American people are far from amused. In fact, record-high gas prices have generated low numbers for President Obama's approval rating.

According to the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll, 46 percent of Americans approve of Obama's overall job performance, while 50 percent disapprove; moreover, nearly two-thirds of those polled frown upon the President's handling of gas prices. Another recent poll, conducted by CBS News, found that 54 percent of Americans believe the President does play a role in controlling gas prices.

Consequently, Steven Chu is altering his tune, as his advocacy for European-level gas prices looms too close to reality.

During a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on Tuesday, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) asked the Energy Secretary whether he still favors European-level gas prices. According to the National Journal, "Chu seemed to equivocate, pause, and stumble over his words when responding to Lee's question about high gas prices." Ultimately, Chu conceded, "I no longer share that view."

Not too long ago, Obama renounced policy measures designed to tame rising gas prices, as he stated in March of last year, "[W]e cannot keep going from shock to trance on the issue of energy security, rushing to propose action when gas prices rise, then hitting the snooze button when they fall again."

However, it's an election year, and the President is scrambling in every which way to secure a second term. And if that means folding on a previously held belief -- for the time being that is -- then so be it.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/steven-chu-backpedals-advocacy-european-level-gas-prices-160100594.html

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