Opinion: $4 gas is here. Facing down Putin is worth the price.
The typical American drives about 14,000 miles a year. The gas price hike in the past week alone will add abouta year in extra costs just at the pump if prices hold steady. If prices go higher, that burden will increase. Congress has demonstrated bipartisan willingness to go after Putin, including with a ban on Russian oil imports. Lawmakers should show equal support for helping vulnerable Americans through this period if prices remain at record levels.
Putin underestimated the bravery and fortitude of the Ukrainian people. He misjudged the unity of the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, Japan and even Switzerland to enact joint sanctions. One of the last big tests is whether Americans and Europeans are willing to pay higher energy prices in an effort to hurt Putin where he is most vulnerable.