Gas

"Polls show that the public blames politicians — after oil companies and foreign oilproducing countries — for the high prices.

. . .

"Gas this week reached a record nationwide average of $2.61 for a gallon for self-serve regular, according to AAA."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/latimests/20050825/ts_latimes/gopfearsgaspriceangermayspillover

What IS the official reason for the skyrocketing fuel prices? The average price per gallon of gasoline has gone up 50% since January. What is the official reason for that, and what is the real reason, if they differ?

Here's a chart of the average price: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8533441/