Gas prices are through the roof right now, and I am not happy it’s running mine and everyone else’s wallets dry. From commuting to work and school to buying groceries, nearly every part of our lives is affected by the cost of fuel.
In places like Manhattan KS, where prices are typically lower than the national average, drivers are still paying around $3.10 to $3.49 per gallon, with some stations ranging from as low as about $2.80 to as high as $3.50 or more. The important question is, why are regular people expected to bear the burden of global events and policy they have no control over?
Some people have concerns with these concerns at the pump being overlooked and our current President Donald Trump’s decisions in certain international conflict and polices, that has recently been demonstrated by protest in our country know as the “NO Kings Protest” and I do agree with some of these opinions. Mainly that he’s focusing a lot on foreign conflict instead of problems in this country and the people of America. With a recent local protests in Manhattan City Park March 28 Saturday Morning.
One of the biggest problems I see is how much gas prices impacts the working-class families. On the other end with the wealthier families, they can easier absorb that $30-$40 extra at each pump. The families that can’t absorb that extra cash, they have to cut back on essentials with food and healthcare, which in my opinion is a larger concern.
Another issue I have is with the big oil companies, when gas prices go up, these companies are still making tons of money, which makes a lot of people wonder if they’re taking advantage of the situation. In fact, U.S. oil companies could make over $60 billion in extra profits if high oil prices continue according to Yahoo Finance.
I don’t think it seems fair that regular people are struggling to afford gas while these companies are making large profits. If they’re doing so well even during a crisis, I think there should probably be more rules to make sure prices stay fair. Right now, it feels like there isn’t enough honesty or accountability, and that needs to change.
Overall, high gas prices demonstart a larger dilemma, there isn’t a good balance between the economy, energy policies, and protecting regular people. Short-term fixes like tax breaks or stimulus checks might help for a little while, but they don’t actually solve the main issue. Real change would mean investing in renewable energy, improving public transportation, and making rules that put people before profits.
As a student I dont’t believe Americans should have to choose between putting gas in their car and paying their bills. Until leaders actually do something meaningful, high gas prices won’t just be something you hear about in the news, they’ll keep being a real struggle for millions of people every day, including Rock Creek students.
