John Drake: “Today, the national average for a gallon of gas has reached $4.07. With your average vehicle tank holding 18 gallons…”

“Today, the national average for a gallon of gas has reached $4.07. With your average vehicle tank holding 18 gallons, that translates to $75 to fill your tank. This is on top of skyrocketing food costs and, now, increases in both our natural gas and electricity bills at home. Many American families simply cannot afford these prices. Yet we stand on this floor without allowing debate on a comprehensive solution for the American people. This country is tired of partisan maneuvering and is tired of Congress just saying 'no.' Madam Speaker, Americans are downright mad. Some may argue that high gas prices are an incentive to make Americans drive less or that high energy costs are an incentive for businesses and homeowners to utilize more green practices. High energy and gas prices also cause businesses and jobs to move offshore where natural gas is cheaper. I firmly believe in investing in technology that will move us away from our Nation's dependence on petroleum, but during this transitional period, we must also increase our domestic supply and fuel our economy. No one can deny that energy is something that we all use and need. Americans expect this Congress to do everything within our power to address these high gas and energy prices. Madam Speaker, we should not leave here for the Fourth of July recess without increasing our own natural resources. Bring relief to the American people. Keep our Nation competitive and open for business.”