So the original story (run by the BBC as well as other outlets) was either:
1) based on bad and borderline dishonest reporting
2) based on faulty science
3) based on a government official’s false understanding of science
4) based on a government official wanting to take over and or restrict the sale and marketing of a product.
5) all of the above.

Gee, color me surprised.

David,

I am also a resident of southeast Wisconsin (Pleasant Prairie).

We have been dealing with ethanol in Gasoline a lot longer than you think. Ethanol was first mandated to be added to gasoline (5%) in the 1970s, nation wide.

This was not done because of the oil embargo, but rather to reduce tailpipe emissions of highly toxic Volatile Organic Compounds.

When the EPA first mandated reformulated gas for SE Wisconsin, the mandated additive was not ethanol. The original reformulation required Methyl tert-butyl ether. which is toxic and was very unpopular with the general public. Boosting Ethanol content to 10% was offered as a safer alternative to MBTE.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MTBE_controversy

Let the market decide. Ethanol in fuel has been around for decades; there’s no more “establishing a market” to be done. It can stand or fall on its own merits.

Scott Walker was also a resident of southeast Wisconsin, and his flop on this issue is one reason I may not support him in the primary. I don’t think I want someone who is willing to support something like this for political gain. But who knows; he may end up being the best remaining candidate when next year rolls along.