Obama administration: Clunkers improving gas mileage

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration appealed today to the Senate to bail out the cash-for-clunkers rebate program, arguing it has already made striking gains in fuel efficiency and is a “wildly popular” economic boost.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood ducked when asked if the program will be suspended if the Senate does not vote to replenish coffers before lawmakers go on vacation later this week.

Instead, he said “I believe the Senate will pass it this week.”