There hasn't been a refinery constructed in the US since 1976. The enviros have created such a web that construction is all but impossible. So, the oil companies build refineries elsewhere.

Speculators are estimated to have driven the price up 30% by some sources. On $4/gal that translates to gas being at $2.80/gal.

The costs are being manipulated by many but the brunt of criticism is focused on the oil companies and those that the enviros (new socialists) want to corral.

And if you think the price of oil is bad now, wait until Hillary or Barack pass their 'windfall profit' taxes. It seems that almost any intelligent person knows companies don't pay taxes.. they merely pass taxes along to customers and 2) no one has said how they will be able to collect taxes from international companies who have the option to move resources elsewhere.