Republicans/free market people, should we end oil subsidies?

[Jacobtm]

Recently, some Democrats have been calling for a windfall profits tax for oil companies. Most Republicans denounce this idea as nonsensical, because it interferes with the free market, etc.

But if Republicans are so concerned with the free market, why do they continue to support subsidies and special tax breaks for oil companies? Shouldn't the market be free from ALL government influence?

[Jacobtm]

My hope would be that if oil subsidies were just cut, oil companies wouldn't survive, but rather have to get into alternative energy. We're just driving towards a cliff trying to stick with this stupid fossil fuel crap.

If only Republicans in congress had any ideological spine and weren't just beholden to those with the deepest pockets...