But the administration is pursuing a policy that is doing just that, that would, in effect, compound what you think is a bad idea.

But Mr. Chairman and colleagues, for the life of me, I cannot figure out why the Federal Trade Commission will do absolutely nothing to even investigate the Bakersfield refinery closure because this goes right to the heart of making sure…

I think you are just sort of incredulous at this.

So you think it could be a problem.

This Bakersfield closure does not smell right. It does not add up and it has great implications for the entire west coast market.

I know everybody's schedule is busy.

I would also urge that you undertake this investigation expeditiously to ensure there is sufficient time to take appropriate action before the refinery closure takes place.

At least you have given me an argument to go back to the Federal Trade Commission to use in terms of making the inquiry because to me, again, this is pretty obvious.

To me it is not rocket science. Supply is really short.

I just think it sure looks like the oil companies are using higher oil prices as an excuse to increase their refinery margins and pad the bottom line.

Given that, would you not say that it is a bad time for the Federal Government to adopt policies that would further reduce oil supply?

It just strikes me as incoherent, but I want to give you a chance to respond.

Now, the oil companies say that it is not their fault, but I have released evidence indicating that the companies have deliberately curtailed refining capacity and increased their refinery margins, actions that boost gasoline prices higher.

I am very concerned that there are administration policies being pursued now that are going to push gasoline prices up even higher.

I want to ensure that whatever we do, we are meeting the region's highest transportation priorities.

I will be working on that along with Representatives Baird, Blumenauer and DeFazio.

I want to ensure that those Federal efforts meet the needs here from this community.

I will help write the Senate's transportation appropriations bill.