New fuel efficiency standards are important for national security

A very rare thing happened this week: Barack Obama did something I agree with. The administration raised fuel efficiency standards on automobiles and SUV’s to an average of 35.5 miles per gallon. I know that many fellow conservatives are up in arms about this decision, but I think it’s a good decision which is long overdue.

There are already complaints about the new regulation relating to the increased cost of new automobiles and the reluctance to do anything to improve global warming, since many find the science inconclusive. As for the cost, it could be substantial. New car prices may rise up to $1,000. That’s certainly nothing to sneeze at, but this extra cost will certainly pay for itself in reduced fuel costs. Besides, once the car companies begin making more fuel efficient cars on a large scale, the economies of scale will likely kick in and bring this upfront increase down.

As for those who oppose the more stringent standards based on their skepticism of global warming, I offer this advice: Put that aside for a moment. Whatever you think about global warming, there is no doubt that our nation faces a major problem: Our reliance on foreign oil. I really don’t like that we get so much of our oil from the Middle East and other hostile countries. One of America’s chief goals should be to become energy independent. The Obama administration recently stated that more drilling will be allowed off the U.S. coast. The increase isn’t as expansive as I’d like, but it’s a step in the right direction to increase our domestic supply. By also increasing our fuel efficiency standards, we will be decreasing our domestic demand. If domestic supply continues to rise while domestic demand continues to drop, then we will be heading in the right direction.

Of course, you might still disagree with me. If you do, then feel free to continue opposing these new standards while driving inefficient vehicles. I’m sure the terrorists who live in Middle Eastern countries who benefit from your decision will thank you.