(NewsUSA) - Financial security and freedom is a goal many Americans are in search of. However, when most people receive their paycheck, bills come first and spending money comes second -; rarely leaving any for savings. But these actions, which we may consider as being responsible, may be a faster track to the poorhouse than to riches.

Gas prices are now comfortably in the $3.00/gallon range across the country.  Both Democrats and Republicans are lining up to bash President Bush on the current gas price situation.  Both sides are charging collusion, price fixing and gouging.  It seems as if everyone is calling for investigations and penalties levied against the oil companies. 

What’s really going on?  First off these charges are at best, irresponsible, at worst, typical pandering for sound bites by politicians who don’t understand how markets work and have no desire to actually take the time to learn about them.