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Missouri primary reinforces voter support of ethanolMissouri The results from the Aug. 5 primary election again confirmed Missourians want policy makers who recognize the benefits of ethanol. This summer, the statewide ethanol standard took center stage in the race for governor. Both the Republican and Democratic gubernatorial candidates who support Missouri's biofuels industry were rewarded with winning votes and their party's nomination. "Some candidates have tried to drive a wedge in Missouri's agricultural community for political gain," states Missouri Corn Growers Association President Mike Geske. "But farmers understand the market cycles and consumers aren't buying the scapegoat tactics being used by ethanol's critics." With more than 70 percent of Missouri's fuel supply containing 10 percent ethanol in 2007, few problems were observed when the standard, legally known as the Missouri Renewable Fuel Standard, went into effect on Jan. 1. The law requires gasoline sold in the state to be blended with 10 percent ethanol only when ethanol is priced equal to or lower than conventional gasoline. This unique price provision means that utilizing a Missouri-made fuel cannot increase gas prices. "Missouri's ethanol standard is saving consumers dollars at the pump and drivers are taking notice," Geske said. "As a state, we have earned the proud position of a biofuels leader. We are confident that come November, voters will elect decision makers who have the vision to maintain this status and will continue to build our energy security." Missourians' endorsement of ethanol mirrors voter opinions on a national scale. Numbers released on July 10 by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research and Public Opinion Strategies indicated strong support remains for ethanol among voters from both sides of the aisle. A survey of 1,200 registered voters conducted between June 23 and July 1 found that the public supports increased use of ethanol in America's fuel supply at a margin of 2 to 1. Voters largely blamed the rising cost of food on fuel prices; while less than 1 in 10 blamed the expanded use of ethanol. This critique of oil is warranted, Geske said. "At a time when families are facing tough budget decisions and canceling vacation plans, Exxon Mobile reported second-quarter earnings of $11.68 billion, the largest quarterly profit ever by a U.S. corporation," Geske said. "Our wealth is going overseas and our businesses are being bought out by foreign investors, yet Missouri's ethanol industry remains farmer owned. Members of the agriculture community have built this industry from the ground up and those dollars a re staying here at home. In today's economic environment, it is really one of the few bright spots." Missouri is home to six farmer-owned ethanol plants, producing over 250 million gallons of ethanol annually. To learn more about these farmer cooperatives or corn production in the state, visit www.mocorn.org. 8/25/08 Date: 8/21/08 Advertisement
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