where you live

Tax is tax, they are gonna get it from somewhere. Most people don't drive to save on gas, as it really doesn't save that much for most. It seems those most outraged as yourself go buy it in Washington or ? Unfortunately that isn't really logic based, why the outrage if you are paying less.
To save 40$ per fill including your time and fuel used you would have to be filling a vehicle about 150 litres, which may also say something about the vehicle you drive. That wouldn't work for me as i spend less than 200 dollars per month on gas. the savings would only be 600 dollars per year before drive expenses and time expenses. So no, I am happy to pay these taxes, and am happy that it isn't taxed on income instead as it gives me a choice on how to avoid it, buying a fuel efficient car or like you shopping elsewhere.