Obama comes out swinging on gas taxes

Posted: Friday, May 02, 2008 10:58 AM by Mark Murray
Filed Under: 2008, Economy, Obama, Ads

From NBC's Mark Murray
At a media avail in Indiana today, Obama -- playing the outsider card -- criticized the Clinton's and McCain's plan for a gas-tax holiday. "Now, the two Washington candidates in the race have been attacking me because I don't support their idea," he said today, per advanced remarks. "In fact, yesterday Senator Clinton demanded that everyone go on the record on this issue. She even borrowed one of President Bush's favorite phrases, and said that every member of Congress had to tell her -- 'are they with us or against us?'"

"Well, folks have been weighing in. And you know what? It turns out that people want to be on the side of the American people -- they don't want to be for something that is such an obvious election year gimmick; they don't want to line up behind an idea that's more about trying to get a few votes than getting you meaningful relief."

More: "Senator Clinton does have some support for her plan in Congress. After all, the person who first proposed it was John McCain. So I guess when she says 'are you with us or against us' -- Senator Clinton is referring to her and John McCain. That's one vote she's got, because on this issue, Hillary Clinton and John McCain are reading from the same political playbook."

Also, here's a new TV on this subject the Obama campaign is airing in Indiana:

*** UPDATE *** Clinton spokesman Phil Singer emails this respose: "The choice is simple: Senator Obama wants the American people to pay the gas tax this summer but Senator Clinton thinks Big Oil should. The Clinton gas tax holiday is financed exclusively through a tax on windfall profits from oil companies and keeps the Highway Transportation Trust fund intact."

EMAIL THIS

Comments

Like Bush, Hillary believes you are either American (vote for Hillary) or some elitist latte drinking scumbag who is un-American (vote against Hillary).

By the way, I love to drink Latte's and Drive Prius's if I could afford one anyway. and despite the bigoted comments of Hillaries sick friends, I AM AN AMERICAN TOO!

I would like to start a little thing here on first read since the actual news is long since gone. If you are an American who is not rural, white, and blue collar, and you have been put down endlessly by the Clinton campaign, then Declare it on these blogs like I have done before.

I do not support hillary Clinton and I AM AN AMERICAN.

Chad, Salt Lake City Utah (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:07 AM)

The McClinton gas tax plan . . . proof that the truth is stranger than fiction.

Nashville_fan (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:07 AM)

My name is Barack Obama, and I support higher taxes.

BHO, Chicago (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:07 AM)

Yes, HRC and John McSame seem to be almost one and the same lately.

It's really quite funny how HRC is running to the GOP and "vast Wright Wing" to try and save her.

I guess since her, John McSame and George Bush all agreed on, and VOTED for the WAR, that we can expect her to stand in line with McSame on issues.

Maybe she will be his running mate.

Wouldn't that be one for the ages.

obama 08 (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:09 AM)

America can not afford to continue on the low road.

Time to move on.

Gregory Peek, Birmingham,Alabama (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:09 AM)

It would be nice if there was also coverage about how this relief of the gas tax will not save us any money and cost jobs. Even if it is offset like Clinton plans, we will still pay for it because the tax on the oil companies will be passed to us. A political ploy; not a solution.

Ron, Louisville, KY (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:09 AM)

Indiana and North Carolina --
There's the pitch
It's a sinker thrown by Hillary...Obama swings the bat with a mighty thunder...
Some where birds are singing and some where children are laughing but there's no joy in Billary ...The
Mighty Barack has crushed her "testicular fortitude" out of the park!!!!

(catcher of the hanglia said,
" I'll be selling it on Ebay, stay tuned ">)

Silly Politics (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:10 AM)

Biff, bop, BAMM!

Talk about a knockout punch!

You know if Hillary and her partner McCain actually wanted to put people on record on this issue, they might spend a couple of days at their jobs in DC like actually writing a piece of legislation and introducing it and getting a vote.

But of course, neither one has any intention of working on the issue ... they just talk about it.

No pandering.

bismarck (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:10 AM)

So Obama supports a 25% 'windfall profit' tax on fuel. I can't wait for the $5 gallon of gas at the pump when that tax is passed on to the consumer. All of us 'middle-classers' should understand that it's for a good cause though. No complaining now. Stiff upper lip and all.

Obama/08

Julius Hargrove, Kansas City, MO (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:11 AM)

Someone needs to do a definitive "Electability" score card for these 2 candidates, listing all positives and negatives. When will the media begin to remind voters of the Clinton highjinx from that scandal ridden administration? They have been sailing through this campaing completely unfettered by their past misdeeds and mistakes. If Obama is going to be hung for Wright, Ayars, etc. then they deserve equal treatment. If voters become reminded of what Republicans will plaster the media with if Hillary is the nominee they might recover from their amnesia. Way too many have swallowed the Clinton memory-fade Kool Aid!

Steve, Hunt Valley, MD (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:12 AM)

I don't care who you are, that is a powerful ad. I pray that the Indiana voters will open their hearts, and most importantly their minds, and use their vote wisely.

donna (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:12 AM)

>> America can not afford to continue on the low road. <<

With Obama in office, we will have no roads. Couldn't afford them.

Deli Stevens (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:13 AM)

I love it call a Republican a Republican. I have noticed that Clinton and McBush have been reading from the same play book. If you are keeping score McBush has attacked Obama 16 times to attacking his running mate Hillary 4 times. I also wonder why the RNC is attacking Obama efore he is even the front runner? Does that not make a logical mind question that? Or are the Hillary supporters so blinded with infatuation that they cant see past Hillary and her many characters. I like the last one the best , to bad she is a little old to be a filly ,so a mare or a nag will have to do. MSM is in the tank for Clinton.

Brian M. De (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:13 AM)

Is Obama always rolling up his sleeves to make us think hw is a hard working blue collar worker. He is such a fake.

Brother Odd (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:13 AM)

I love it!
Factual, truthful...
I'm glad he is hitting back on this, because it is a gimmick. And in the end it will end up costing us jobs because it takes away from money going towards our roads and bridges.
So Hillary and McCain are pushing for a bill that will save about $30 for 3 months, but will cost us jobs in the end.
That's just sick!

LeAnn,va (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:14 AM)

This IS the same guy who voted for a gas tax holiday while he was a Senator in Illinois!!

Good try, Senator Obama...but we all know you're just trying to take on ANY issue to get out of the hole your campaign is in!!

Politics as usual...for the man who ran as NOT a politician...who as Rev. Wright said, "he says what he has to say as a politician"!!

There's nothing more dangerous for this country than a politician running for the Presidency with NO experience and followers who can't even name any of his accomplishments!!

Carol, CA (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:14 AM)

The gas tax "holiday" is a fraud we cannot afford. I can't believe Americans will fall for this garbage. We're better than this.

Rob CA (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:14 AM)

Just keep plugging Barack! Hillary is playing to voter ignorance, and fear. She cannot win with these tactics. No, Not This Time.

aleese (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:14 AM)

Lower taxes never cost jobs. Private industy does a better job with the money then government ever can.

Jason Speilberg. Modesto CA (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:14 AM)

Hillary needs to be honest. This gas tax thing is just a gimmick. Just work through the logic:

* Key source of reevnue for building maintaining roads, bridges etc is eliminated

* #1 effect is to immediately impact road construction type jobs. Think about it we just lost a bridge in Minnesota also think trickle down effects.

* Overall savings is less than half a tank of sas all summer. Does this really sound like a long term solutions to anyone?

* How does eliminating the gas tax put a stop to generally increasing gas prices. The price still goes up! The unending price escalation is what needs to be halted.

Typical Washington gimmick to make people think they are doing something but in reality not doing anything. Do not be afraid to use your brains people! It does not hurt.

Btw, Perhaps the Clintons would do better to surround themselves with better people. Mickey Cantor needs to be fired immediately! Indiana was a piece of s**t and full of white n*#*rs then but I guess its important now.

George Stephanopoulos and James Carville are really disappointing. I hope comebody has a complete video so we can see to put this in context.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN_nQOHj__s

Btw, Firstread for once please post my comment. Thank you.

Camus (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:15 AM)

GOP should stand for:
Grumpy Old Politicians...think about it...

SMILE because there's Barack Obama a WINNER!!!

Silly Politics (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:15 AM)

Seems pretty obvious that Clinton has no shame nor conscience, so we can't expect more from her. But McCain must be beside himself giving into this pandering crap and now being alligned with Clinton, lol.

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:16 AM)

Higher taxes are ANTI-AMERICAN. Any one that supports them is unpatriotic!

Westwind (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:16 AM)

As much as it pains me to say it.
He's the only one of the bunch that got this one right.
The gas tax gimmick is just that.
If it looks like, smell like, it is...

RH Oregon (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:16 AM)

We have 4 more days until the people vote on Tuesday. The polls have yet to have it's final say. Keep the faith Obama supporters. Pray without ceasing.

ET (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:16 AM)

Still no mention of how the gas tax is extremely regressive (that is the opposite of progressive btw) and that affects the poorest the most.

Also, the fact that both HRC and JMcC support the holiday, isn't this an example of working with the opposition for a common goal? Why does BO oppose it? Or does he only work accross the aisle when he gets his own way?

Alan, NJ (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:17 AM)

Hang tough, Obama. You have never been the one to speak out for what is POPULAR. You have been the ONLY candidate to speak out for what is BEST for the American People. Just like your stance AGAINST the war in Iraq, you are right in regards to your stance on the 'gas-tax' holiday. Every economists is supporting your views. HRC and JM are just trying to placate the average American, appearing to care, but really doing more damage in the long run. Think People!! Hillary may paint herself as a fighter, but who is she really fighting for??? Us or herself??

I want the candidate that is fighting for ME!! We thank you for standing up for the American people, Senator Obama. Keep fighting!!!!

SJB, SLC, UT (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:17 AM)

I must say, as an outsider looking in, this primary, and the higgly piggly little issues that the media jumps in on is very entertaining.

Let's get back to the issues or as an old commercial used to ask:

Where's the beef?

At least one of you is admitting to picking on the Front runner.

Wow.

Evan Bry, whistler, Canada (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:17 AM)

Quick solutions aren't good ones, we need to learn to deal with and solve problems on a long term basis. This is the only way we're going to get over this oil dependency. Why risk loosing billions not knowing if we're fully going to get that money back in the system, I mean, extra taxes on the oil companies is pretty much going to come back to the consumers in some shape or form.

Free Thinker, Lawrenceville, Ga (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:18 AM)

Hillary would just be more of the same. Throw us a few crumbs. I want real change.I will take Rev. Wright in Chicago any day of the week rather than Bill
Clinton in the White House peddling influence and who knows what else.

female over fifty for Obama (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:18 AM)

I love this ad. Obama is the real deal.

Finally, a Presidental candidate I can trust.

thomas, pgh., pa. (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:18 AM)

Good Show Obama--good form.

Clinton political strategy--pot calling the kettle black.

Obama--I already am black, white too. Now what!

Clinton political characteristic--the girl who cried wolf. What can we twist and lie about next.

Obama--I don't like to lie--about gimmicks and stuff. Now What?

Clinton--Your iegther with or against us, or me and John McWar will "completely obliterate you

Andress (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:18 AM)

If we remove the federal gas tax, refineries will increase their costs to fill that gap. Consumers will only have a hollow victory and refineries will have a winfall.

sg, michigan (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:18 AM)

I do not support Hillary Clinton and I AM AN AMERICAN!!

Obama '08

Liz,NY (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:19 AM)

Lets find a way to fix the problem, Clinton just want to give the oil company more money, they will not pass that saving to the pump so we won't get anything out of it, OH I'm sorry yes we would, 200,000 jobs lost in construction! Way to go Hillary! Thanks for the NO JOBS!

Anne/Ohio (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:19 AM)

And it's a swing, and a miss! The mighty Barack has struck out (again!)!

Luke Wilson, Grantburg VA (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:19 AM)

Hey Chad - Actually I am a blue collar, middle aged white woman and I feel like I'm still an American. If Hillary is the nominee I'm staying home though.

jeanie o, saint inigoes, md (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:19 AM)

this what hillary's advisor really thinks about the people of indiana....lets see if you will shhow my post....since the media seems so afraid of the clintons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN_nQOHj__s

D, towson, md (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

Hillary we are against you and your gas gimmick, lies and the damage you are doing to the Democrat party. The American people don't want a quick fix!

Linda (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

female over fifty for Obama (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

"Now, the two Washington candidates in the race have been attacking me because I don't support their idea," he said today, per advanced remarks.

__________________________________________
Washington Candidates?

DON'T YOU WORK IN WASHINGTON TOO? SENATOR OBAMA.

patty,sd,ca (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

McClinton sure is a two headed monster that thinks alike. Great contrast between old pandering politics and Obama's high road politics. Stay real and positive Brack, it will serve you well.

Geoff, Texas (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

To BHO in Chicago,
Must be a repub, huh?
That's part of the problem these days. People's misconceptions of the truth.
Are you one of the rich seeking to get richer?
Yes, Repubs do typically offer lower taxes, but for what? Less jobs for construction, less jobs period? Less money used for community outreach programs? Where do you think the money comes from to fund such things? Typical response to someone who obviously is just thinking: Me Me Me. Sounds like Sillary too, hey?
That's another problem. We need to stop being the greedy people we are and actually think of the needs of others for a change.

Obama '08

Andrew Milwaukee, Wi (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:20 AM)

If we remove the federal gas tax, refineries will increase their costs to fill that gap. Consumers will only have a hollow victory and refineries will have a winfall.

sg, michigan (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:21 AM)

I am not alone in observing that MSNBC is losing its credibility by leveling the playing field for Hillary. It slipped out on Hardball as, at the end of the show Chris Matthews said to the panel, "It's a close race?" The guests did not know what to say and Chris said, "We have to say that it is" (close). Then the sin of omission.
In the Indiana campaign a Hillary Ad talked about a defense plant (Magenquench) in Valparaiso IN. that was sold to China, costing 200 jobs for Hoosiers. Hillary blamed Bush for approving the sale. The Huffington Post and ABC news researched the story and found that it was BILL CLINTON who approved of the sale as the sale took place during the Clinton Administration. To Hoosiers, this is a real "falsehood". I can only conclude that MSNBC is stonewalling the story until after Tuesday. MSNBC is protected by the First Amendment, but evidently they are not protected from the Clintons. Lets return to honest journalism.

Ron Indiana (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:21 AM)

I TRIPLE-DOG-DARE McCain and Clinton to submit legislation for the Gas Tax Holiday!

C'mon! Show us how much you really believe in the idea!

You're supposed to be about solutions and not speeches...esepecially you, Senator Clinton! You said so yourself!

Go ahead, put your money where your mouth is!

...or is it really about trying to score points rather than your claim of trying to do what's good for the people?

I do not support Senator Clinton and I AM AN AMERICAN.

Pete - Albany, NY (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:21 AM)

That's right Obama. Pull the covers off Hillary, and expose her insincerity.

You don't have to rummage through her baggage either. The people remember.

2T's, pa. (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:21 AM)

Its time for Goldilocks to get out of my house.

The Chicago Bears (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:22 AM)

The Clinton-McCain infamous 'Gas Tax Holiday' plan overwhelmingly criticism by economists and officials is no doubt a sign both will do anything even teaming up to together to derail Americans

unfortunately for them Americans are smarter.

Rally behind Obama, let's together solve our problems.
Besides if they had great plans for this country why did they not make these changes during the Clinton's 8 years and Bush's almost 8 years now.

Do not be fooled again

Vote for Change!! Vote for Obama

Bjon. NC (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:23 AM)

obamas right on this one folks to get your 25.00 you have to buy 138 gallons in three months if gas cost you 3.60 your going to pay 496.00 dollars to get 25.00

for all you bs artist out there whineing "your takeing a meal from me by not supporting the gas tax plans" get real if you can't afford 25.00 dollars for food your sure as hell not going to pay 496.00 for gas

a real picture is more like 20.00 a week for gas at 3.60 a gallon YOU WILL SAVE LIKE 11.00 DOLLARS that wont even get you 2 meals from mcd's

it doenst even get you the magic half tank of gas hill promises it gets you little more than 2 gallons of gas she's just trying to buy your vote for 11.00

mike ca (Sent Friday, May 02, 2008 11:24 AM)

Next >>

SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.):

Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private) Remember me?

TRACKBACKS

Trackbacks are links to weblogs that reference this post. Like comments, trackbacks do not appear until approved by us. The trackback URL for this post is: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/trackback.aspx?PostID=971972