Does Bush manipulate Oil Prices?

Less than 7 years ago, oil sold for $19 per barrel. That was 1999 and oil prices had been falling.

What is keeping oil prices over $60 per barrel, three times higher?

Some people blame China. But, an analysis of China's economy shows it runs on coal and natural gas. China imports very little crude oil. And, the amount of oil imported by China has not grown as fast as oil prices.

The usage of gasoline in the United States has steadily increased over the past twenty years at a rate less than inflation. About 1.5% annually.

The only reason for gasoline prices to increase in the U.S. would be inflation given that world reserves have grown faster than usage.

This is an open forum. What are your thoughts?

Is the U.S. propping up oil prices so that Iraqi oil makes money? Is the situation in Iraq so bad that we have to boast the Iraq economy by manipulating oil prices.