Here is something that most of us who drive cars probably rarely think about or may not

even know about, and it's the fact that when we buy gasoline, we are at the same time

buying a piece of highway construction or highway repair because there is a tax, a federal

tax on gasoline, and it's from that tax that the federal government draws the majority

of the funds it uses when it sets out on its mission of repairing our roads and keeping

our highways and bridges in tip-top shape, at least in theory.

I say in theory because we all know if we've been on the roads lately that they are not

in very good condition, that they are full of potholes.

And when I point out that this tax has not been raised in 20 years, it seems the question

becomes, well, is it time to raise it?

Or is there some better way to restore to our roads the smooth driving experience that

many of us consider almost part of the American dream?

Well, that sounds like the makings of a debate, so let's have it.

Yes or no to this motion.

Raise the federal gas tax to fund infrastructure.

A debate from Intelligent Squared U.S.

I'm John Donovan.

We are at the Kaufman Music Center in New York City, as always our debate goes in three

rounds, and then our live audience here in New York votes to choose the winner and only

one side wins.

First please welcome the team, arguing for the motion.

Let's welcome Shailan Batt.

...