Decision 2012: Car Sales Get Mileage

Worries over rising gasoline prices are fueling a demand for new, more fuel efficient vehicles. Nationwide March saw a 13 percent annual jump in new car sales, much better than expected. Along with the desire for better mileage, sales are being pushed by a pent-up demand from consumers who put off buying new cars during the recession. "We're seeing more people that are comfortable in their jobs, not as worried about losing their jobs, so they're more likely to spend," said one car salesman.

Class discussion: Take a look at news reports about how gasoline prices and people's economic outlook can affect the election. Which candidates get hurt by rising fuel prices? How do politicians try to boost economic pessimism or optimism to their own advantage? Do politicians routinely overstate improvements or declines in the economy? How is the bailout and recovery of the U.S. auto industry likely to impact the election?