The pushback from Obama, along with skeptical economists on both sides of the aisle, on the gas tax holiday is strikingly effective, according to what Quinnipiac finds:
By a 49 – 41 percent margin, American voters say eliminating the federal gas tax for the summer is a bad idea, according to a Quinnipiac University national poll released today. Republicans split 45 – 46 percent on the gas tax ‘holiday,’ while Democrats say 49 – 42 percent it’s a bad idea and independent voter turn thumbs down 56 –38 percent.
The proposed gas tax cut is a loser in red states, 48 – 42 percent, blue states, 49 – 43 percent and purple – or swing – states, 51 – 39 percent, the independent Quinnipiac University poll finds.
A total of 69 percent of American voters say rising gas prices are a “very serious” or “somewhat serious” problem for their families. Because of rising gas prices:
- 57 percent of American voters have cut back significantly on household spending;
- 61 percent have cut back significantly on driving;
- 39 percent have changed summer vacation plans.
Oil companies are most to blame for rising gas prices, 35 percent of voters say, while 23 percent blame President George W. Bush. Looking at other causes:
- 19 percent blame oil producing countries;
- 14 percent blame normal supply and demand pressures;
- 3 percent blame Americans who drive gas-guzzlers.