This is the first in a series of reports on the soaring cost of oil; check back here each week for more “Fuel Watch 08″ specials and exclusives

This week, Congress voted overwhelmingly to order the White House to stop depositing oil in a national reserve. The reserve has been getting 70,000 barrels a day.

That’s the proverbial drop in the bucket since Americans have been going through about 20-million barrels a day. But to many in Congress (the measure passed 97 to 1) it’s a gesture to constituents who are getting burned at the pump.

It’s a gesture alright, according to Rep. Joe Barton — a meaningless gesture.

“If all the members of the House would go out onto the steps and clap our hands three times and say, Down prices, down prices,’ that would have as much impact as passing this bill.” — Rep. Joe L. Barton