Shouldn't Dems love rising gasoline prices?

The price at the pump continues to rise. Corresponding to the rising price of oil is the decibel level of Democratic rhetoric decrying the development. Obama and Hillary both have pledged to lower the price of gasoline. At the same time, they would both have us believe they are ardent environmentalists who want to ween the nation off of oil and on to environmentally friendly sources of energy (unless of course, that source of energy comes from nuclear).

So what gives? Why is no smart journalists asking Obama and Hillary why this story is not a welcome development?

For the first time in years, people are buying a little less gasoline in America. Analysts say it may be a sign that high prices and a slowing economy are beginning to change people's driving habits.

Since the beginning of this year, gasoline consumption has fallen about half a percent, according to the Department of Energy.

The last time gas use fell — other than after Hurricane Katrina — was more than a decade ago. That it's falling again now suggests that high prices are finally influencing behavior. Since November, prices have averaged $3 a gallon or more. That's the longest they've ever stayed that high.

Doug MacIntyre, who has studied gas consumption at the Department of Energy since the 1980s, says he thinks people may be responding by cutting down on trips or using public transit more.

"It's probably a combination of factors. Anecdotally, we hear of more people carpooling more often," MacIntyre says.

Democrats will never get what they want -- less dependence on oil -- unless they are willing to let prices rise and allow the market to run its course. The problem is they know full well that this is a losing position at the polls, so they posture on the environmental issue while promising to promote policies that ensure Americans can continue to get relatively cheap gasoline.

What they say they are for -- environmentally friendly sources of energy -- is not really what they are for.