Surprise: America's dependence on foreign oil is increasing

How's that hopey-changey windy-sunny energy plan working for ya, America?

The United States is increasing its dependence on oil from Saudi Arabia, raising its imports from the kingdom by more than 20 percent this year, even as fears of military conflict in the tinderbox Persian Gulf region grow.

The increase in Saudi oil exports to the United States began slowly last summer and has picked up pace this year. Until then, the United States had decreased its dependence on foreign oil and from the Gulf in particular.

This reversal is driven in part by the battle over Iran’s nuclear program. The United States tightened sanctions that hampered Iran’s ability to sell crude, the lifeline of its troubled economy, and Saudi Arabia agreed to increase production to help guarantee that the price did not skyrocket. While prices have remained relatively stable, and Tehran’s treasury has been squeezed, the United States is left increasingly vulnerable to a region in turmoil.

Man.  I was so sure that twisty lightbulbs and electric cars would solve this problem.  Darn it.

If only we had access to oil and natural gas here in the United States!  Oh, wait.

Well, at least we have a president who knows how to handle news like this.  Oh, wait.