Pump pandering

If we really need to care, the logic of this column by the Ottawa Citizen's Dan Gardner is impeccable:

Wouldn't it be wonderful if there were a simple test that would allow us to distinguish between principled politicians and those who will say anything for a bump in the polls? Well now there is.

First step: Listen to what the politician says about climate change. Second step: Listen to what the politician says about high gas prices.

If the politician says he or she is passionately committed to the fight against climate change and he or she wants the government to do something to reduce gas prices, you can be sure that politician is a pandering jackass.

The reason why this test works is Economics 101.

High and rising gas prices encourage people to drive less, use more public transportation, and buy more fuel-efficient vehicles. Industry responds to these signals by enhancing research into fuel efficiency and alternatives to gasoline. Over time, fuel efficiency steadily rises. Keep it up and eventually people will be able to buy cost-competitive cars and trucks that use no gasoline at all.

[...]

Whether the price is high because of taxation or shortages or gouging or speculation does not matter, at least not for this purpose. What matters is that the price is high - because that will set in motion a series of consequences that absolutely must happen if we are to beat climate change.

For politicians, this presents a dilemma. It's popular to say you will fight climate change. But it's far more popular to say you will reduce gas prices.

For the unprincipled politician, the solution is simple. First, never acknowledge the link between climate change and gas prices. Then declare your support for the fight against climate change and for lower gas prices.

Real leaders would never do this. Gas-pump populism may win votes but it is pure nonsense. Real leaders don't pander. They lead.

Hence, my test. Let's apply it, shall we?..

Read on for the assessments of leading American and Canadian politicians; Jumpin' Jack Layton is "a pandering jackass", as is Prime Minister Harper. Sad.

Meanwhile, David Frum has his own idea of fun. Real fun:

Then there's the deuce--"stroked and bored".

Mark C.

Posted by markc at May 3, 2008 04:48 PM