Bush Loves Saudi Oil. Do you?

As has been documented, the Orthodox community in America is steadily moving to the right in almost all areas of politics and public policy. This includes issues of foreign policy, society, and economics. And for many, this also includes environmental concerns.

It seems to me that an increasing number of Orthodox Jews would scoff at requirements or incentives for automakers to create cars with better gas mileage, or for measures to ensure alternative fuel sources. Indeed, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit taking place now, environmental concerns are the hot topic.

But President Bush's visit to Saudi Arabia should give all Israel-loving Jews cause for concern.

Bush was urging "OPEC nations on Tuesday to put more oil on the world market and warned that soaring prices could cause an economic slowdown in the United States," according to an AP article, which can be found here on AOL, for now.

But look at a quote later in the article, and it doesn't sound like Bush was urging at all: "When consumers have less purchasing power, it could cause the economy to slow down," Bush said. "I hope OPEC nations put more supply on the market," he added. "It would be helpful."

And the usual pictures of Bush buddying up to Saudi royalty doesn't make me feel any warmer.

We know what owing favors to Arab countries in the Middle East often means--sacrificing America's strong support of Israel. Now what would happen if this year sales for cars that get better gas mileage increase 3 fold or more? And what would happen if 100,000 Jews this year bought or leased a hybrid or otherwise more fuel efficient vehicle? The trend would be off and running, those kinds of cars would start becoming more mainstream, and sales would increase next year, as well.

I'm not suggesting anyone spend more than he can afford. But if you can afford it, wouldn't it be another great way to help support Israel? Why wouldn't you?