Specter and Co. grill big-oil execs on record gas prices, companies' profit
"With the consumers suffering so drastically, not only at the pump but big issues on heating oil for the elderly - especially in a state like mine, Pennsylvania - don't you think that gives some cause for wonderment and questioning as to why profits have gone up so high?"
The executives of the five major U.S. oil companies, which reported total profits of $36 billion in the first three months of the year - were summoned before the committee to answer that question. They said, essentially: "Don't blame us - it's the law of supply and demand."
"Is there anybody here that has any concerns about what you're doing to this country with the prices that you're charging and the profits that you're making?" demanded Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill
