Obama's Tire Answer is Absolutely Right!

Sen. Obama was recently asked a question about reducing the US dependence on foreign oil. His response was that our country could become more energy efficient by inflating our car tires and getting regularly scheduled maintenance.

Needless to say, the Republicans are laughing this simple response under the table. They are broadcasting Obama's answer as foolish and another example of his incapability to lead the country as President. But, little did they know (how surprising), Mr. Obama is 100% correct.

According to a Time Magazine article:

The Bush Administration estimates that expanded offshore drilling could increase oil production by 200,000 bbl. per day by 2030. We use about 20 million bbl. per day, so that would meet about 1% of our demand two decades from now. Meanwhile, efficiency experts say that keeping tires inflated can improve gas mileage 3%, and regular maintenance can add another 4%. Many drivers already follow their advice, but if everyone did, we could immediately reduce demand several percentage points. In other words: Obama is right.

[Barack Obama actually suggested that inflating tires and tuning up cars] could save as much oil as new offshore drilling would produce. Gleeful Republicans have made this their daily talking point; Rush Limbaugh is having a field day; and the Republican National Committee is sending tire gauges labeled "Barack Obama's Energy Plan" to Washington reporters.

Republican governors Arnold Schwarzenegger of California and Charlie Crist of Florida have urged their constituents to do exactly what Sen. Obama has recommended. Apparently, they got their RNC tire gauges in the mail, but didn't get the joke.