Energy Hostage Crisis Part 1 - Energy handcuffs

The Smell TestWe’re Being told that we are energy independent. We see the oil rigs in Texas, the pumps in Utah. Yet, a drone strike in the Strait of Hormuz 7,000 miles away just added $2.00 to your gallon of gas. If we have the oil, why are we paying A ransom To the middle east? Something doesn't smell right, and today, we're going to follow that scent and see where it leads.My Thoughts on this whole Mess.The oil and gas leases that our government makes available to oil companies represent an asset of the American people. Any and all assets belonging to us should benefit us first. Allowing companies to make a profit as well, makes the whole thing work. We should never allow them to sell our top grade stuff overseas for huge profits (of which we do not benefit) and then import cheap junk oil and make us pay premium price at the pump. And the when we have a conflict in the middle east we have to pay even more when our oil is not at risk. Our assets should always be for the benefit of us first. Not to make astronomical profits for big business.What if we were refining our own oil, here is the "black and white" comparison to show the estimated difference. We would have to spend 30-40 Billion Dollars and it will take time to re-tool the refineries. We would also have to eliminate the jones act or get some new ships to carry the oil. But True energy independence would definitely be worth it.The idea of being free from the dependance on the middle east and all the wars and disruptions That’s pretty damn good too.