Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average American family is now spending 30% of their income on gas, a figure that has been steadily increasing since 2019. This increase in gas prices has led to a decline in consumer confidence and a decrease in spending. This decline in spending has further fueled the economic downturn. The Biden administration has been criticized for its handling of the economy, with some arguing that the administration has not done enough to address the rising gas prices. The administration has responded by blaming the increase in gas prices on the war in Ukraine and the global supply chain disruptions.

The public is blaming Republicans,” said one Democratic strategist. This statement reflects a strategic decision by Democrats to deflect blame from themselves and shift it onto the opposing party. This tactic, known as “blame shifting,” is a common political strategy used to avoid responsibility for unpopular policies or actions. Here’s a breakdown of how blame shifting works:

* **Identifying a scapegoat:** Democrats identified Republicans as the scapegoat for rising prices. This was done by highlighting the Republican’s stance on energy policy, specifically their opposition to renewable energy and support for fossil fuels.