Falling gas prices and conspiracy theories

Every day that gasoline prices inch lower, I can't help but wonder whether it's a Republican conspiracy to give the GOP an edge come Nov. 7. I wouldn't rule it out. But, on the other hand, gasoline prices historically begin to fall after Labor Day, often reaching their low ebb in November and December.

Even though average gasoline prices are on the verge of dipping below $2 a gallon in New Jersey - down from a high of more than $3.20 post-Katrina, prices were lower last November and in November 2004. In November 2003, gasoline was selling for about $1.50 a gallon.