Ohio Senator George Voinovich

 Ohio Senator George Voinovich is pushing for the United States to become less dependent on foreign oil and says it is time to look in our own backyard like going to Alaska.

Gas and oil prices hit all-time highs this past week with oil at $120 a barrel and gasoline topping $3.80.  Locally in Logan County the average price at the pump is $3.74.  The national average is $3.65.

(Audio included in this story)

Analysts predict that gasoline will top $4.00 a gallon by summer and could hit $4.25 by July 4th.

A recent USA Today/Gallup poll shows that high gas prices are taking their toll on Americans.  75% of households that $75,000 or more a year say they are changing how they use their cars.  60% of those polled said they are trimming other expenses due to the gas prices.  50% of households that make $20,000 a year or less say they face severe hardships.  Six out of ten workers say they are now sharing rides with friends or neighbors.

Voinovich says the proposed holiday tax break on gasoline is not enough for Americans.

Hear what Senator Voinovich had to say Senator Voinovich speaks out about gas and oil