Actually, I'd agree with you that the oil industry is one fine example of an industry that is very much protected and supported by government action.

Except that is, it would appear, at the level of the local gas station. I don't have all the info from Brent - check your local media for more info; the story is everywhere - but it seems pretty clear that Shell Oil is coming in with predatory pricing (which is illegal in many states) to try and wipe him out.

I'm hopeful that the avatars of the free market ideology (who currently run the Oregon House) see what's happening to one of their own and learn a little life lesson here.