Additionally, with each fuel market swing, budgets and credit lines are stretched, limiting the capital businesses need for operations and growth.

FORBES: Higher Gas Prices Here To Stay, But Fuel Price Volatility Can Be Tamed

Moreover, if Mr Obama tries to take credit for good news in swing states such as Ohio, Virginia and Florida, he will have to share it with incumbent Republican governors equally intent on reaping the political benefit.

ECONOMIST: The economy

"Every time you mention the party, take credit or talk about the past, you lose swing voters, " says a Gore partisan of how Gore's consultants answer his concerns.

CNN: The Lover vs. the Fighter