I chose to live in the city and used to be very close to work. We bought a modest home, close in, so we would not have the expense or inconvenience of a commute. Our house is within walking distance of the metro and we are on several metro bus lines.
Unfortunately, they relocated my job to a building they built out by Dulles airport. There is NO public transportation, and biking is not a viable option due to safety issues. My commute more than tripled. Oh yes, if I have meetings at other buildings, the taxpayer has to pay my mileage to drive there.
I did not choose to be relocated but I'm stuck until I complete my current assignment.
Now I pay a big chunk of change on tolls, gas, and car upkeep. So while I understand why people are for a gas increase, the simple truth is that some of us have no choice but to drive to work. If I could ride the bus or ride my bike to work, I would.