Gov. Doyle: Joins Nine Other Governors to Push White House for Gasoline Price Answers

Contact:
Jessica Erickson, Office of Governor Jim Doyle,
608-261-2156

Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle joined nine other Governors
today in sending a letter to President George W. Bush, asking him to provide
a clear and precise explanation of spiraling gas prices.

“Gas prices have risen dramatically in recent weeks, and
it’s putting a strain on Wisconsin consumers and businesses,” Governor Doyle
said. “The Bush Administration owes America an explanation for the
increasing cost of gasoline under their watch, and it’s time they took
action to protect American consumers.”

The letter states: “Because the recent price increases have
a ripple effect on other critical components of our economy, it is important
that the petroleum industry give an accurate and straight forward
explanation for the causes of the recent price spikes. This is a
significant national concern, and it deserves more than the traditional
Washington political response of pointing fingers.”

The letter also requests the President to direct Attorney
General John Ashcroft to conduct a prompt and thorough inquiry into the
issue of gas prices.

The nine other Governors who signed onto the letter are:
Governors Janet Napolitano of Arizona, Thomas J. Vilsack of Iowa, Gary Locke
of Washington, Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas, Ruth Ann Minner of Delaware,
Joseph E. Kernan of Indiana, Jennifer Granholm of Michigan, Bill Richardson
of New Mexico, and Bob Holden of Missouri.