"In contrast, the opinions of GOP supporters were more consistent. Their collective opinion shifted by only a third, according to the data. In 2006, 47 percent in believed the White House could influence gas prices. By 2012, that number had risen to 65 percent up 17 points compared to the Democrats’ 40 point shift"

One could argue that the Dems are opportunists, but to think the White House can lower gas prices...that is nonsense. Its very clear price is controlled by strategic decisions on the part of vertically integrated producers, by speculation and by demand. Sadly, not so much by competition.