Diverse Groups Rallying against Ethanol (Politico)


May 5, 2008

The Politico quotes CGD senior fellow Kim Elliott on global food prices.

From the article:

"Also pushing the letter is Arizona Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, who called for an end to 'flawed government policies that distort the markets, raise food prices artificially and pit producers against consumers.'

Ironically, many outside economic experts say the two major factors behind the food crisis are increased demand for meat due to globalization and the skyrocketing price of oil. Focusing on ethanol alone 'is a red herring,' said Kimberly Ann Elliott, a trade specialist with the Center for Global Development.

Last year, in the battle over the energy bill, oil companies led the fight against ethanol but failed. This time, the food industry is taking the lead, hoping it will be received more sympathetically, said Hutchison aides."

Read the article

Read the related blog by CGD director of communications and policy Lawrence MacDonald.