November 20, 2008
Posted: November 20th, 2008 03:36 PM ET

ALT TEXT

Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill said Thursday the auto industry has to come up with a plan before Congress will authorize a bailout. (AP Photo)

WASHINGTON (CNN) – The auto industry has until December 2 to fashion a plan that will provide a path to "accountability and viability," Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Thursday.

Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a press conference that the Big Three automakers - Ford, General Motors and Chrysler - had failed to convince Congress that they had developed a viable plan for the $25 million they are requesting in bailout funds.

"This is an important industry in our country and we intend to save it," Pelosi said. "Until they show us a plan we cannot show them the money."

Reid said Congress would return the week of December 8 to consider the proposal, but only if lawmakers are convinced that the public would be well-served.

Full story

Filed under: Congress


Beth   November 20th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Yes, ask for a plan. But I think you should NOT bail them out unless the plan includes:
1) No bonuses for CEOs and others
2) Cut salaries for top management, eliminate positions
3) Re-do, get rid of the nonsense contracts with the unions. No worker should make 76 dollars per hour when the company is not even profitable! And for those who were laid off: do what other companies do: 4 months severance pay and then that's it

I think letting them go bankrupt is the only way to force the unions to re-negotiate their contracts. In fact, do not hire workers that belong to unions, period.

annie - never again a dem.   November 20th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

How much money does pelosi, reid have in the auto industry? No one wants the big lousy 3 bailed out. These crazy plans of the demmies is going to make me have to drive my BMW right up to the welfare line! Oh, guess that would be ok when you can fly 'private jets' to beg for millions! What are these men doing running a lg corp. they are totally ignorant. They couldn't even manage ringing a bell at a Salvation Army stand. If this is the best corp. can come up with for management then this country is in for very big trouble! Oh, that's right, some just elected a president of the country with no experience, no qualifications.

annie - never again a dem.   November 20th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Could someone please impeach pelosi?

happy thanksgiving   November 20th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

NO BAILOUT!!!!!

Steven   November 20th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

By the way, how many governments around the world are being asked for money by the 3 auto makers? What is the worldwide tally of the automaker bailout?

Tim   November 20th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

I agree with Jeff's comment and would like to add: The US owned the auto industry monopoly in the 50's and 60's. During the 70's the quality declined and in the meantime Japan slowly and eventually gained their share of the auto industry and continue to do so. The US auto industry has done very little to make US cars competitive with the Japanese cars. I lived in Japan 15 years and saw imports but they weren't made in the US. They imported Mercedez Benz and BMWs. The Japanese asked the US automakers to make cars with right hand drive for Japanese drivers but they wouldn't budge. MB and BMW saw this opportunity and made right hand drives and now import to Japan. I've test drove several american made autos and will not purchase one. I continue to purchase a Japanese auto for the obvious reasons. If the US made a comparable auto I would reconsider but until then.......let them fail due to greed, lack of foresight and inability to stay competitive.

Desert Strom Vet   November 20th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

I thought this was a "Private" Industry? I thought Capitalism was sink or swim on your own. Let them go bankrupt and start over or make improvements. When the average American Democrat, Republican or whatever party makes bad decisions no one bails them out. This is getting ridiculous, not to mention scary. Scary because with bail outs comes government involvement in decisions. If it hasn't sounded like socialism prior to now it does now. Wall street, banks, auto industry what's next? Oh yeah health care.

Steven   November 20th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

I wish someone could ask Speaker of the House Ms. Pelosi or president-elect Obama to call Mr Harper our PM of the Canadian government to give him some advice. The big 3 automakers asked our government for $3B on top of the US $25B. Everyone wants to help, but it would be great for them to show the governments a plan and not be so arrogant.

IKE   November 20th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

They bail out AIG a company that is not as important to the county as the automobile industry, yet they will not help the back bone of the country. These people really are stupid.

Stephen   November 20th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

For those that commented about the big three only producing vehicles that get nominal gas milage, we have only ourselves and the EPA yes a govenrment agency to blame. Let me ask you this, if a government agency were to mandate that your product produced 30 mpg to meet federal law why would you produce a vehicle that got 50, 60 or 100 mpg only knowing that if you did that same govt agency would come back and tell you 1 yr later to do better. In my honest opinion they already have the technology for 100mpg cars but they are holding on to it so that they are not required to do any better. The EPA should remove its mandate for fuel requirements and put an incentive policy in place, yes there shold be a minimum say 30 mpg but if they meet that for every mpg above they should get a tax credit, this would further develpoment and give them a reason to produce fuel efficient vehicles. Right now they have no incentive to go above and beyond and if they do they risk the standard being raised and being penilized if they cant meet it. Simple business sense to me.

mitch   November 20th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

in other words. stick it! the whole dern country can fight over beans this winter.

Lissa   November 20th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

No Bailout!!!!

Write to your Senators......

Natural consequences need to occur.

voter   November 20th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

funny how the dems did not ask wall street for a plan prior to the bailout. Why does wall street get bailout and not the Big 3 which is so important to providing jobs to main street?

Marty   November 20th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

The big three have been fat cats long enough! Yes they shuld be
able to borrow-the money and pay intrest just like we do.I worked
for Gm 18 years in Managment-Was sold to Delco Remy–Delco
Remy went out of business in 2002-They went has Remy.Still
owned by Gm -all of our business went to Mexico-before we shut
the plant down mexico was making parts for us! They brought
these parts to our parts. They came in the door we hired man
power to sort parts-so Gm was still paying mexico $6.50 a person
plus the shipping and man power charged $8.00 a hr.-so we were
around $16.00 a hour.we lost all our jobs.Top managers have a
mental block It there way or the highway.!!!!!
They should shut all there plants down in mexico-Fat cats should
have to work for $1.00 a year untill these chrises is over or resigned!!
I was able to retire in 2002-30 years- went i reached 65 years old
my health insurance was canceled. When i recieved my notice i
was told there was nothing I could do. Well there was i purchased
a new JEEP ! THIS IS AMERICA!! The UAW needs to make alliance
also-Gm -Chrysler-Ford are big spender and Wasteful .

seattle   November 20th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

no dont give them any money.let this corportate richy ppl die.

Milhouse van Houten   November 20th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Whose next?Starbucks,the Gap,Burger King?When it all comes tumbling down due to the greed of unfettered capitalism,nobody is going to have any"spare change"to keep any of these corporate
entities afloat.

muha   November 20th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

give them the money!!!

caribbean admirer of OBAMA   November 20th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

This is the way the big guys want to put PE Obama under pressure for them to receive the same treatment as the financial institutions on the Wallstreet. I only can advise the PE and also the housespeaker Pelosi to not fall for this because you will create a chaos in the US.

C   November 20th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

HEY, DIDN'T THE BUSH CROOKS TAKE $700 BILLION SO THAT BANKS COULD LEND MONEY! WHY THE HECK ARE THE AUTO MAKERS COMING TO US... DO WE LOOK LIKE THE ONLY SUCKERS THAT WILL LEND IT TO THEM! GO ASK THE 100 AND SOMETHING BANKS THAT HAVE BEEN ENJOYING OUR $700 BILLION WHILE THE AVERAGE JOE STILL CAN'T BORROW A DIME!!!

suzanne   November 20th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

I have an idea. Why not give every family a $20,000 tax credit to buy an American car and then freeze the price of those cars so that the Big Three can't raise the price. Then everyone will be happy.

HouseDiva   November 20th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

Rob

it's people like you who give credence that republicans are ignorant racist.

forget the reeducation....you need to get an education first

Christina L.   November 20th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Okay, it looks like Rob and many others contributing here need a quick dictionary and history lesson. Mussolini, Franco and Hitler were FASCIST regimes, not SOCIALIST regimes! Do you know what far wing of our party system fascism is located? THE RIGHT WING! Yes, THE REPUBLICAN PARTY! So quit remarking that Obama is a fascist when Sean Hannity is closer to the truth.

Helen, VT   November 20th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

I am so happy with the republicans. It is because of their opposition today the bailout plan did not go through. I wonder what will happen when Democrats will have super-majority from next year. It is very much scary. I am sure tax payers who voted for Obama will learn a un-forgettable lesson. I wonder what media like MSNBC, CNN, ABC , CBS would like to say then.

HouseDiva   November 20th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

ANN

let the investors bail them out then.

millions of people are already losing their jobs...what makes the auto workers jobs more special????

let them suffer with the rest of us who cant find work.

to hell with the big "3"

Griff   November 20th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Business is a Gamble!... America is in Trouble... Pelosi????
School Teacher????

Charles from Atlanta   November 20th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

Well. Good solution takes time. Has anybody know the whole picture of bailout/no-baiout? So the congress is doing the right thing, let the borrowers present their feasible plan and congress can vote on that.

They Don't Know Anything   November 20th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

This is NOT A PLAN!~
This is plain stupid!
At least be truthful and tell the american public what the real intent is here is to protect the unions. it is bad business to lend them more money as they will be back for more, let them go bankrupt it gets them out of the money they owe AND the union contracts for high wages. they pay 73 per hour compared to hondas 43.
Let them go back to the drawing board and change their company that is really worth something instead of feeding this dead horse!

hm   November 20th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

So let get this staight, Congress gives AIG 700. billion but questions a 25. billion for the American auto industry which produces jobs for fellow Americans and then Palosi comes out saying they will do this after the Thanksging week break that the congress gets. Well I hope that Barney Frank and Ms. Palosi thinks about how wonderful there high and mighty holliday is, while 90% of Americans can;t buy a turkey to have a meal and has to explain why Santa is not coming this year. I think it is time to get rid of the congess and their pretend concerns for the American people and give the power back to the American citizens. I hope this will haunt then as the look around the table and maybe the will get food poisening.

Rob in Detroit   November 20th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

If the Big three want any money then get bit from one of the country's that they have shipped American Job's to No bail out for the big three.
Ford can get money from selling the Lions GM needs to file Chapter 11,

Jeff   November 20th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

It's astounding to see that people are still defending GM and their vehicles, which have been nothing but severe disappointments for the past two decades. There is nothing GM and the other domestic automakers have done to become even remotely competitive with the best foreign automakers. To blame their impending bankruptcy on the credit crisis is ludicrous at best; their cars are ridiculed overseas for being inefficient, poorly manufactured, and completely bland. To point out that they have offered ideas on how to become more competitive is too little, too late. They were shortsighted in their goals when fuel was cheap, and did whatever they could to profit from it, they should be given nothing. Yes, many people will lose their jobs if they went bankrupt, but to allow them to tap into the bailout cash would only delay the inevitable, and exacerbate their situation even further. Let them crash now, and they can sooner turn the page on this ugly chapter and start again from scratch.

tyler (portland, OR)   November 20th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Everyone bashes Pelosi and Reid but I am very proud of them for not handing over the cash and asking for a well thought plan.

I can already see things are going to be much better.

Its been a really long time since i could say this....

I AM EXCITED AND OPTIMISTIC ABOUT AMERICA'S FUTURE!!!!!!

good work you guys

Diane Dagenais Turbide   November 20th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

"Until they show us a plan we cannot show them the money."

GOOD PLAN!

Jeff   November 20th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Bring back the EV1, then we'll talk

Anonymous   November 20th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Rob translated means "Pig"

Gene   November 20th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Thank you for your intelligent and meaningful comment Fred. Good to see great conservative minds at work here.

Willy Brown   November 20th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

A true picture of socialism

ex employee   November 20th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Oh, and Dave from central Illinois: I live in Illinois and I am ashamed of you. Thankfully, brains won out and it will be Obama that cleans up this mess. The world, and most of us in the US that actually review facts and not Fox Dribble, took a collective "phew" once Obama won. Go back to your farm or homeschooling your children and leave the grown ups to discuss the issues.

Dan   November 20th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

They need to get rid of the labor unions so they can make more rapid changes to their business structure.

Robert, Houston, TX   November 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

These are supposed to be highly educated very well paid CEOs. They need to present a business plan that works! They are being paid to lead these companies. Instead they make millions burying it in the ground.

christy   November 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

People forget that GM was the number one car company in the world until the credit crisis hit, and they still top Toyota here at home. People don't know that no one at GM is getting a raise and some executives have already elected to take a paycut. People ignore the fact that the company has shed almost half itself while improving quality and delivering winners. They belittle the progress made in the Malibu, G8, Aura, Traverse, and the list goes on. This is an issue about credit. If the credit markets were healthy they could find loans in the market but they can't. That's why they won't survive bankruptcy. I've been there for 5 months now, and I think it's sad how people can demonize their neighbors in need. In 2010 there's the Volt, the Cruze, and soon the Camaro. These loans will ensure those cars make it to market, and I'm sure GM will honor it's debt to the American people.

Timothy   November 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Let them go under or be bought up by more productive competitors.

Anonymous   November 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

If, the Big Three want a Bail out then they should get the money from Canada, or Mexico or any of the third world country's were they have shipped American JoB's to.

Matt R.   November 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Wow Rob... a little RACIST don't you think? I thought we were living in a country where people with computers are educated enough to be on at least a high school level... guess not.

Anyways, I'm not a Democrat, I just had to write something about Rob's obnoxious comment, the election is over bud, now go join back up with the other white supremacists lurking in your small unknown town.

The real comment I want to make is: I am so sick of seeing these Democrats get up here and pretend like they are taking care of business. How hard is it to just say NO every once and a while? Bailouts for Democrat-controlled government is like crack/cocaine for a street junkie. Maybe we should make a federal program: BARE, Bailout Abuse Resistance Education... seriously, it's a necessity in my eyes.

happy thanksgiving   November 20th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

they are asking for billions not millions. i say NO BAILOUT.

Snake eyes   November 20th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

thats about the smartest thing that has come from this issue. I've been skeptical bc there have been no details, if they can show they have a plan then it will be easier to see how the money can be wisely spent, but with no plan who knows where the cash will go. Show me executive bonus cancellations, upper management reductions, prototypes for cars people actually want, then we can talk.

i know lots of jobs are on the line here but the suits need to know they must be willing to take some cuts too.

Arvidel   November 20th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

If the US automakers would commit to working with energy companies to develop more hybrid and electric vehicles, I would support bailing them out. As it is now, I see the automakers as being in the pocket of big oil by making cars that are far from fuel efficient. I see a trend in America towards clean, renewable energy, and today's automakers are stuck in the past.

Ryan   November 20th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Here we go! The Dems in Congress getting ready to hand all of our hard earned money out. Why? So they can control the auto industry. Why are they asking the auto companies for a "plan" while they blindly hand money over to our financial institutions that started all this? Absolutely ridiculous leadership.

recycle washington   November 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

----my dad is losing his job....who's gonna bail him out ?
he works for a phone company.............

Eric - Detroit   November 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

It's funny to hear folks talking down on unions. Do you people realize what a union represents, how it empowers and protects the workers?

If you don't understand, then just spend a little time in the military and/or at a crummie business where the leadership pushes their workers into the ground.

In other words, educate yourselfs, or at least have some real life experiences before commenting about something you obviously don't understand.

Charlotte   November 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

When they cut expenses they won't need a bail out. The UAW is extorting wages from all of us. $76.00 an hour is rediculious. It is no wonder the cars cost what they do? I watched a guy hit a bumper into place, for that kind of wages? They also pay employees 96% of that $76.00 to set at home if they are laid off? I say, cut the wages in half from the bottom up....

kenny   November 20th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

I’m a auto worker, why is it everyone wants to blame the uaw for the auto makers bad decisions, Everyone should watch the movie ” who killed the electric car” and see why Detroit’s in trouble. The Big Three along with some overseas auto makers sold out to Big Oil. That’s why Ford Motor Company still do not have a electric car program. Big Oil gave the Auto companies oil stock to destroy their electric cars, that’s why ford has bp stock and GM has exxon stock and so on, and it just blows me away no one wants to talk about this.

KG   November 20th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

The "show us a plan" strategy should have also been used for the financial and insurance folks as well.

As a matter of fact, it should be used for any company wanting a piece of this bailout money. If you can't show us a plan as to how your going to use the taxpayer's money for the betterment of your industry (and in the end, the betterment of the US economy and the taxpayer) then keep your hands off our cash!!

Oh yes, and Congress, if you're going to give this money out, you better dang well provide oversight and make sure these companies are following through with their plans and not squandering our money!!

Vence wilmington CA   November 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Wise decision of Congress to ask for a plan.
We need to change the culture of the good all boys. Waste is not an option anymore, and the big three have to learn that the hard way. After fix them the big oil should be brought to accounts too. Both of them and Republicans have underestimated the need for better savings. People is right is time to payback what you have done to the people for so many years. Interestingly, now that we have options they are worried.

tennisguypitt   November 20th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

No bailout unless there is a lot of oversight! I just don't trust these stupid CEOs. They screwed up and they should pay the price!

Yea right!!   November 20th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

What happens if The Big Three roll out a detailed plan to Congress & they accept it, loans them the money, & then they don't do what they said? Is there some sort of punishment?

Margot, Northern California   November 20th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

To get rid of those gas guzzlers, new & used they should be out-fitted with electric / cng engines. That would create /boost a green sub-industry . I could help get rid of back inventroy and actualy help the economy & environment.

R&D can go into high gear to make conversion kits compact & efficient. Installers will need to be trained and licesed. "Fueling" stations need to be converted from regular gasoline, etc. Larger urban areas already have started, but we're up on the Lost Coast, the closest cng station being 250 miles away.

deb in Colo   November 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

To Annjell-

Great – but they are now asking the Tax payers to fund those jets. AND OH BY THE WAY – - they weren't flying them in a foreign country. But here in the good ole USA....

Gene   November 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

To the Rob that wrote this:

So, what does "Mein Kampf" translate to in Ebonix?

"Audacity of Hope"

Why don't you just change your handle to "Radical Right Wing Racist" so that we can just ignore your comments and move on

deb in Colo   November 20th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Why don't the Big 3 go to their OIL buddies who are making BILLIONS in profits every quarter for a loan? After all – the gas-hogs the Big 3 build are in part directly responsible for those big profits....

JOE KILOZ   November 20th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

LET,,,,,,,,,,,,THEM,,,,,,,,,,,,GO,,,,,,,,,,,,BANKRUPT,,,,,,,,,,LIKE,,,,,,,,,,,,,THE,,,,,,,,,,

GOVERNMENT

Lois R   November 20th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Nov. 7 (Bloomberg) - General Motors Corp., the world's biggest carmaker, opened a $300 million factory in Russia as it looks to compensate for slumping sales in western Europe and North America.

Where do you think they will get the money for this???
Please don't be stupid..Americans will lose their jobs anyway...
Lois Illinois

Jim   November 20th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

I find it somewhat hard to fathom that they had to ask the Big 3 to show them a plan. Were I coming before this body with my hand out for that kind of money - and this isn't just something that happened overnight - I would have had the plan in hand when I walked in the door. At least that would have given some indication that I was serious about this. As it is, this just seems to indicate that they are arrogant enough to think that the cash was just going to be handed over on behalf of the taxpayers of America - many of whom are out on the streets trying to figure out how they're going to get by. Certainly not flying to D.C. in plush corporate jets.

jane   November 20th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

David, you're an idiot. Taking money out just because McCain and his campaign sucked you in and scared you with his/their smear, lie, scare tactics is such a stupid move on your part and the part of all those other people who have done the same. Doing what you've done only weakens the economy even more. So, if you want to whine about someone, whine about yourself and stop blaming Obama for something he has absolutely nothing to do with.

xMil   November 20th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

It is not a bailout – it is a bridge loan, aka – a loan, to move from a place to a new place. Grief, doesn't anyone understand the concept of a bridge loan?

kelly WI   November 20th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Bankruptsy won't end the industry. They can restructure and become competitive. In price as well as quality.
The laid off UAW workers still get 95% of their pay even when they aren't working.
Being an old timer, I have had cars from all the Companies. From Mercedes down to Honda. Right now I have a Toyota Avalon and it is much better comfort wise and quality than the Cadillac I traded in for it.
The GM plant 15 miles up the road here is closing in Dec. The oldest GM plant in the country. Has been updated several times at the tax payer expense. Maybe now they wil get their act together and it will be put to use again.
Sure its all about the Unions. They had plenty to give to the Obama campaign and are looking for their payback. The company can take their lumps for caving to their demands.

bill   November 20th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

NO BAIL OUT OF AUTO MANFUCTURES.

ROC   November 20th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

$25 million to bail out the big 3?

Frobama   November 20th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

The picture would be more appropriate with 5 tirds standing there.

Jon, DC   November 20th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

"Show us the plan for speding $25B? Did the law makers actually asked what the "Big 3 Auto Maker's" problem is? Has the law makers actually articulated what the auto maker's problems are? Are they asking to be given $25B to make payroll, offset operating costs, make loans to consumers to buy cars or what? Or are law makers just going to give them $25B to turn around and tell taxpayer they did not actually ubderstand how to spend $25B, just like the treasury did? Why is filing for bankruptcy not an option, afterall, other business that could not stay above water do file for bankruptcy toturn around and become more nimble. By the way, I need $750,000.00. Can law makers bail me out? I'll document how I will spend it.

Greed is not good   November 20th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Outstanding speech by Chris Dodd...the Big 3 don't deserve a bail-out they have been so wreckless. Minimally they had better put a solid business plan together otherwise let the chips fall.

Brett   November 20th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Get rid of the UAW and the Democraps and all will be well.

K. B. Denver, Colorado   November 20th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Bailout fatigue has set in and the auto industry is going to have to use it's
advertising agencies to sell this idea of a "BRIDGE LOAN" to congress.

Oh wait good advertising has not helped them sell cars lately scratch that idea. Maybe they will have to sell the idea to us the tax payers just, maybe congress is waiting for public opinion to be more favorable and god bless CNN and other media outlets for trying to educate Americans on just how explosive this situation really is, the last thing we need to do is develop a "who cares" mentality.

After all just how much of a manufacturing industry will be left with out The Big Three?{Ford, General Motors and Chrysler} If you've been watching the news or studying economics that's rhetorical question

paul (staunch Moderate)   November 20th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Private jets for security reasons – a joke in itself – not withstanding, these guys need to file Chapter 11 and use that a way to re-tool for the 21st Century and become competittive once more.

I don't hear a single one of them offering to give up the huge salaries, benefits, and golden parachute retirements to help save their companies.

Until we hear them offering to take part of the "hit" they shouldn't be getting a thing from the taxpayers.

gallimimus   November 20th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

It's a good idea for them to be asking for a plan, prior to forking out the money. We should have done that prior to giving out the 700 billion. Who knows where that is going. Perhaps, the government is finally starting to figure it out.

Blue balloons   November 20th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

$25 B I L L I O N! It's okay, Dr. Evil made the same mistake.

Annjell   November 20th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

To the Moderators,

I would like to know why my comments are held under moderation? I have not called people stupid, idiots, or used foul language as I have seen on some of these blogs.

Is it that most of what I have said is true?

Adam   November 20th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

How about this: NO PLAN!

Let them go bankrupt. They make really undesirable and unattractive cars. Capitalism is about survival of the fittest. And this country is about CHOICE. US automakers made the wrong choice and now they need to deal with the consequence of their poor decisions.

Whatever your politics, this is just the beginning of a new era. Companies fall and new ones rise. So, let's bring on the CHANGE!

Susan   November 20th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I'm all for this, and kudo's to Congress for finally showing SOME kind of spine, but I have to ask – why the heck aren't they demanding the same kind of accountability from AIG???!!! I want them hauled into Congress to explain that little $400K spa junket! Where is the accountability and oversight over the $350 billion already out there being wasted on god knows what?

Bruce Snider   November 20th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Our congress and administration is willing to let the ability of the auto companys to compete on a fair playing feild on an international basis. other counties protect their own with protectionist laws. Why can't we. Also the administraition and big energy have effectivly declared that if new patents that don't benifit them are to be shut down under the National security act. Americans can be their own worst enemy by hamstrining themselves by not taking care of themselves but being a usualy generous people but charity begins at home and taxes should be used here also.

SW,OHIO   November 20th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Even if there is a plan or a bailout, they will continue to take advantaged of the customer and the system. I think the consumers are tired of the Big 3 living above their means. The ones in charge of these companies ought to be held fully accountable for what has happened to the American automotve industry. They should be starved or tortured for being so GREEDY!!!!

deb in Colo   November 20th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

You go CHUCK!!!

I agree – point the finger where it really belongs!

mark   November 20th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

dave, dave, dave from central illinois,
what a short memory you have; the republicans have been in control of both houses for most of the past 14 years; a crisis of this nature does not happen overnight.
The dems once again (1932, 1960, 1992 and now 2008) are cleaning up the mess the repubs have left behind. those that do not know history are doomed to repeat it.
at this point in time, it really doesn't matter who caused it. do you have any better plan?
didn't think so because as a republican, you have no idea.

Phoenician   November 20th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Thank God, Good riddance. to Texan buffoon. Stay there under 10 gallon hat.

Tony   November 20th, 2008 6:07 pm ET

What plan did the others have? Nothing, but no problem handing out the money there. Bottom line is no one should of been handed any money.

This is all the governments falt to begin with. Who brought in Globalization and eliminated the tariffs/duties on products made overseas? I have no problem with companies wanting to open a plant in these 3rd world countries as long as the sell the product there or if they sell in the US then put the tariffs/duties back on to make it more expensive then products made in the US, like it used to be!
But i forgot that is not the plan. The one world order is the plan! To bad to many people are stupid on this earth to realize what is going on.

deb in Colo   November 20th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Any plan should include CEO/Board compensation and the Unions – all pitching in and making sacrifices to make this work. NO MORE FREE RIDES!

Nick in Ohio   November 20th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

I'm OK with a bailout IF AND ONLY IF it imparts strict regulations that will force these companies to develop new technologies, improve gas mileage and become competitive in the world market. That is the only way that this will directly help the American people. If any of these companies goes bankrupt, with the amount of jobs lost, it will only hurt Americans.

sene   November 20th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

it's funny how all this is Obama's fault.......he has been in office the last 8 years, he has controlled congress for the last 13 out of 15 years, his party has held the presidency 8 out of 28 years.

year right....
Let's blame it on the black guy that hasn't even stepped foot in the whitehouse.....while the current president waddles around like the lame duck that he is.

Fred   November 20th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

I can't stand looking at that Liberal Democrat BIT_ _ Nancy.

You Dem's suck.

bill chalam   November 20th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

There is a typo its 25Billion not 25 million, next without a plan throwing good money on the bad money is like a sink hole.

Paul Maglaya (San Diego, CA) Democrat   November 20th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

NO BAILOUT FOR THE AUTO INDUSTRY; I DON'T LIKE MY MONEY TO BE WASTED BY THOSE LAVISH-LOVING CEO's!!!

Latina-Indepedent-4-OBAMA   November 20th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

@ MATT..... great comment and well said! Also, total common sense!

Gene   November 20th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Forget bailing out the car companies in their current situation. I say lets compromise.

Set the money aside that they were going to use to bail the auto industry out. Let the car companies file the bankruptcies and re-organize. Give the car companies enough at the time to cover the pensions and retirement benefits that they're obligated to provide.

Use the rest of the money to jump start the companies after they've re-organized.. concentrate that money on research, development, and production of competitive, fuel efficient vehicles.

Unless the product itself is changed, and the cost of production is lowered.. no amount of money bailout is going to help this industry in the long run.

Fed Up   November 20th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

If these private jet flying executives were delivering fine cars that got 40 mpg and cost $5,000 none of you would care about the jets. Do people who manufacture private jets not deserve to make a living too? Who the heck does anybody have to be before they can own a private jet? Are you the judge of such things? Evidently president of a major multi-national corporation is not high enough in the opinion of some.

There should not be a limit on what anyone can have in America if they can earn it.

I don't want congress doling out tax money that they took from me to these clowns, because they (they = auto companies and their labor unions and their political friends in DC) screwed up and killed the goose that layed the golden egg. Then all the while we have Barney Frank and Chris Dodd acting as if congress played no role in the subprime mortage fiasco that started this melt down.

Anytime people carp about how much money someone else has or makes, that is nothing more than a combination of petty jealousy and monumental ego.

Wake up people, you're letting your emotions rule your head.

Let the big 3 go broke, and help the people that lose their jobs find better ones. This is still America. Lets have some audacious hope. Yes we can!

Jake   November 20th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

I believe the Big 3 need to be saved in its technicality. What I mean by that is that I don't think the millions of Americans that depend on this industry should be hard hit by the greed and shocking lack of creativity by the executives. I'm thinking some way of firing off all the CEOS, executives, and managers but retaining the workforce with new management. But yes, if that's not possible then allowing bankruptcy of some sort, but having a plan to make sure that American cars become more innovative and continue to survive as an industry, and thus retaining the hardworking people at the car plants. It would be kind of sad if years from now we all end up driving only foreign cars, although I do commend the designs and strategy of companies like Toyota and Honda.

Rob   November 20th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

So, what does "Mein Kampf" translate to in Ebonix?

"Audacity of Hope"

Will the Obama-ist Nation mandated brown-shirts be available at Penneys? WalMart? Where will the 'rich whitey'/Republican re-education camps be located? Does the red arm band with the black 'O' go on the right or left arm? Will they allow for 5 minutes of stretching before we are forced to goose-step? Hate to pull a hammy.

Soccer Nana   November 20th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

These three auto corporations need to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and rebuild themselves from the "bootom up".

The bailouts need to stop.

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz   November 20th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

THEY CAN WAIT UNTIL OBAMA TAKES OFFICE.

THE NEED TO ACCOUNT FOR EVERY PENNY.

Forget David   November 20th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Part of a good discussion is accepting the fact that some people have no idea what they are saying and moving on. As adults we try not to rationalize with 2 or 3 year olds because they cannot be expected to understand rationality. The same holds true for those who take the 'blame Obama' approach. The guy was one of 100 senators in the U.S. Senate. Forget David and move on.

jimmie brenner   November 20th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

You want to hear from the "average" joe........................that would be me. I'm a 75 year old granny who fortunately still has a job. I have a nice place to live, my refrigerator always has food, etc. My point here is that taking responsibility at an early age, not ever depending on others for money, (bail out) gave me a life I can handle. No, I'm not saying it was easy! Had a life in the military, Jim was an E-2. For those of you that don't know, that rank is lower than dirt. Again, with three boys, we lived from payday to payday. (no bail out) Twenty years later, Lt/Col Brenner retired and what did he do? Yep, got another job. We still had responsibilities and made plans to execute them so "the gov,t would not have to take care of the Brenner's." GET THE MESSAGE AUTO INDUSTRY. NO PLANNING, YOU FAIL. JB

Richard   November 20th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

This is what we should have been doing to AIG before they got any more money. JUSTIFY THEIR NEED FOR IT!!!

GOP=Epic Fail   November 20th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

the auto industry traded in fuel efficiency for cup holders!!!!!

the auto industry catered to greed.

let the oil industry bail them out

RJ, Phoenix   November 20th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

I love reading the comments here.
Company planes... yeah... that's the problem.

Big picture folks... big picture.
Millions will lose their jobs.

And last time I checked, a sound restructuring plan takes time to create.
Maybe the big 3 should follow congress' lead on how to create a plan.
They cranked out the $700 Billion deal in what, a week?
We've all seen how well that piece of trash legislation was written.

GOP=Epic Fail   November 20th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

the auto industry FAILED

back when they were building and selling gas guzzling SUV and hummers they should have been building and selling fuel efficient cars

the auto industry played right into the hands of the oil industry; that's who should bail them out; not the tax payers!

if the auto industry did things right; we would have hundreds of thousands of AFFORDABLE fuel efficient cars on the roads and highways...there wouldn't be any layoff and plant closures like it is today.

the auto industry deserves NO bailout....they deserve to burn in their own greediness.

Annjell   November 20th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

My original post disappeared

I was an investor, the corporate jets are paid for and approved by the board. It was paid for by the investors of the company.

Business men from corporations like these have been kidnapped in foreign countries and held for ransom.

Again, taxpayers did not pay for the jets, investors did.

Jim   November 20th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

FWIW: Agree with the comments on spending and pay cuts. Also, I would ask the UAW to pull their deal forward 1 year. It does not kick in until 2010. The Big Three need it now.

Alton   November 20th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Let the Big 3 go into chapter 11, put the companies in receivership, ask the employees to temporarily cut their wages by 20%, fire all the executives and void all their salaries, benefits and parachutes. Then tell the employees that they now own and run the company. If they save the company and it makes money, then they can restore their wages, and share all the profits made by the company.

While in chapter 11, Guarantee all cars made will have a 75,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty by using a Government warranty insurance fund, 0% interest rate for 60-72months and improved mileage on each car.

Sink or swim, I have more faith in giving money to an employee owned company than an executive owned company.

zenter   November 20th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

hey matt, in response to the waxman article blog....i agree that the original spike in price to 140 a barrel was artificial demand, which is exactly why it dropped so fast down to where it is now. What i was saying is that they didn't get away with it in the end, and we'll see this year that the oil companies won't turn near the profit that they did last fiscal year where they broke the record. Furthering my original point is that gas will not goto 10 bucks a gallon, and even if they did create artificial demand to make it 10 bucks a gallon it would have the same bubble bursting effect that the first spike had.

ericowenzelbecker   November 20th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

MRS PLILOSI. great women, bravo,most intelligent thanmen senator,and represetantErico . chile. sudamerica.

Ron   November 20th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

David,

Please explain how this is Obama's fault?

Jim   November 20th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Btw: What is the difference between this and the billions in subsidies we give to farmers - in some cases, subsidies to NOT grow food?

There IS hope for the future>>>   November 20th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

I think that congress should just allocate the money in a way that the auto industry DOES NOT get to even see it if they do have a plan by then. Do NOT just turn the money over to them!

sb   November 20th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

$73/hr

Latina-Indepedent-4-OBAMA   November 20th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

We need to stop and THINK, people! Sure the Big Three must sell their jets! When they are going bankrupt its insane to fly on private jets.

Congress must insist on several requirements, one is certainly a 5 year-plan showing how they will succeed and pay back the American Taxpayer.

We can not allow over a million jobs lost! Yes, the Big Three are total idiots for not having the brains to see that their big-gas-guzzlers which are lemons were not selling in America!

They also need to fire all the CEOs, CFOs etc., and freeze wages. And produce ONLY quality, fuel efficient vehicles!

The Hummer is dead.

Desert Strom Vet   November 20th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

This issue will go away when the Dems take over.. It is an issue now because the Republicans can be blamed. No one wants to bail out anybody else, but this will appease the UAW and the Dems can say they tried. Wait till January you won't hear a thing.

Seth   November 20th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

The Democrats will do anything to please the UAW union, one of the big reasons Obama won was to continue the union status quo, which I'm sure he will do.

CR   November 20th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I think that's 25 Billion and not 25 million. 25 million is just enough to cover their private jet travels.

Georgia Gal   November 20th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I think they are on the right track. The Big 3 need to present a plan before we just hand over the money to them. Unfortunately though, I do think we do need to help them out. Too many people are employed by these three companies or are in businesses that would be adversely affected by these three going under. We can't just sit along the sidelines while the fight for their financial well being, especially since so many other peoples financial well being is tied to theirs. That said, Washington needs to absolutely insist upon some changes being made within these three companies and they cannot back down from that.

Grant   November 20th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

First off, who cares about the private jets, get off this as it is a stupid theme. These jets hold 12-15 people, thus the cost is not much more than buying all of them plane tickets. On the flight over, it is all business as they discuss the hearings etc..try doing that waiting in line at Reagan International getting frisked at screening. Plus on board, they have computers and state of the art communications devices etc. The guys are not running the local home hardware! If you are holding up a bridge loan that affects 1 Million jobs and 5% of our GDP because the guys at the hearings came in a business jet, no wonder this country is going in the toilet! WAKE UP

This country is in a crisis, the American bravado has become the laughing stock of the entire world. The way we do business is disaster, we are broke and the world is collecting the bills. The Canadians just gave the BIg Three, 4 Billion dollars in loans to help them with their Canadian operations, and they did not have to beg before any Parliamentary committees! Cowboy John Wayne has rode off into the sunset........

sandee in Portland   November 20th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

I agree that there should be a business plan submitted before any decision is made. However, that being said, if our government had allowed these car companies to sell their cars here that were enviromentally friendly, then they would not be in this position. Instead our wonderful government only allowed these car companies to sell those cars overseas, thus keeping the oil industry fat in our own country. So, it's not just the companies fault, but our government as well. And for all you naysayers that say this is not true, check it out and also ask anyone that's worked in the automobile industry for the last 15 years.

Hans-Erik Iken   November 20th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

The big trhee should fire their top management for allowing their companies to get into this mess. The government can give them a loan only if they will produce the type of quality cars the public wants and needs with better mileage, hybrids etc.

If those fat cats don't want to go and comply let them go belly-up.

No point in throwing more money down the bottomless pit. And the money may only be used for productionfacilities in the US.

chubbs   November 20th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

nice of nancy pelosi to shine her mask today

Sara from Arizona   November 20th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

NO TAXPAYER MONEY FOR THIS. Let them go out of business.

Pat F   November 20th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

What a sight that photo is! Pelosi, Dodd, Schumer, Reid, all struggling for the podium and masquarading as leaders! Where were they when Freddie and Fannie were robbing us blind? Oh, yeah, accepting campaign contributions – McCain too, as I am well aware.

This crowd is going to have Obama for lunch.

Takes a Thief to Catch a Thief   November 20th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Funny that of all people Congress should ask for accountability. These are the same people famous for adding "Riders" to any bill that has a chance of becoming law and adding billions in 'pork barrel' spending. Now they have the guts to ask someone the be accountable. Wow! The times they are a changing!

maryna1   November 20th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

I wish the candidate would discuss global poverty more. According to The Borgen Project:
$30 billion: Annual shortfall to end world hunger.
$540 billion: Annual U.S. Defense Budget

Pete   November 20th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Maybe Dodd can offer some new sweetheart deals and get the auto industry the same breaks he got on his home mortgage.

Pelosi, Reid & Dodd, the new three stooges.

Pua, HI   November 20th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

It is a delicate issue as was with the bank bailout. In a way, no company should receive a bailout, but then jobs are at stake. It is not easy as a lot more companies would have or will need help. Here in Hawaii, Aloha Airlines and then ATA Airlines went bancrupt about half a year ago and were not bailed out. People lost their jobs and it was a blow to our economy here in Hawaii which has still not recovered. I am a small business owner and would not receive bailout if needed.

Pete   November 20th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Signs of true leadership. Look to someone else for the plan. And it's pretty funny that Obama has stayed quite throughout this. Again, sings of ture leadership

Change we can wonder where it came from!

Emily   November 20th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

The CEO's making millions ruin the company and continue their excess and greed and the everyday line workers suffer. Something is wrong with this picture. I think anyone making over 15 million a
year flying around in a private jet should keep their mouths shut about the autoworkers making too much. At tops, including benefits the highest paid makes $75.00. What is that compared to the greedy CEO's that can't even manage properly. Who is bringing the country
down? Not the little guy even though they would love to hang the blame on them.

sky   November 20th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Why dont we make the plan. All those people in charge, the CEO's on down need to have a major pay cut. They style in which they do business needs to change immediately. Each of the big three needs to hire a person to go and show them how to do things better. A guide. Someone to restructure how they do things. And they need to promise to produce green vehicles immediately....not in ten years....now....even those plug in electric cars everyone loved that GM made and then destroyed ten years ago....they have the technology now. Make them do it if they want our money. Give them the money with stipulations and a time frame. WE should make the plan...not them.

A Woman In California For Obama   November 20th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

It's too bad many will possibly lose their jobs but I say GIVE THEM NOTHING! If I lose my job will my firm be able to ask for some of that bailout money to keep me? They have got to learn fiscal responsibility. Sell their private jets, give up their bonuses and live like WE do. Then, only then will I be convinced. Otherwise, I hope congress sends them a message by saying no.

Darko   November 20th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Chuck – Clinton's economic growth war due to the dot.com bubble and the gutting of our defense. Bush spent his first 2 years in office diggin us out of that and 9/11.

Fannie and Freddie started this fiasco. EVERYTHING stems from the mortgage crisis. It infected all areas of business. That can be laid solely at the feet of the dems. It started with Carter, doubled under Clinton and finally Frank, Dodd and the other goons. Community Reinvestment ACT (social engineering)...idiotic piece of legislation

Now you have Frank saying that he doesn't want any Union busting going on with the big 3 when the Union itself is half the problem(at least with GM).

Lu   November 20th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

The three, no five, stooges in one shot. What have you done Pelosi and Co. for the past 2 plus years you've been in control? What a bunch of hypocrites!

Meh   November 20th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Oh Dave, you're funny. This financial mess has been happening for YEARS. Hardly Obama's fault, but keep trying!

Lynn in NM   November 20th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Oh, come on. Just give out the money. You really don't care what is done with it. After all, they can just give it back to the Democratic Party as a donation, right? Or possibly to a presidential candidate.

Luke   November 20th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

I think thats 25 billion, not 25 million.

Laura   November 20th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Too late. They should have had a plan. They just proved they are incompetent other than to rake in riches for themselves. My idea would be for them (new managment) to build and sell only energy efficient, high quality, but all to the lowest price tag for the consumer. These autos would have to be qualified and then sell them to consumers at employee pricing or less, and then let the government give the buyers an instant rebate.........up to $25billion. Get the people buying the cars so the auto guys can have money coming in to run their business and perhaps figure out a way to build autos for the 21st century and become profitable over the years.

Conservative James, Phoenix, AZ   November 20th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Oh, Dave from Central Illinois, you are so filled with hate.

Get out of your parent's basement and get a life.

The three in that photo had NOTHING to do with the financial crisis. Blame de-regulation (starting with Reagan) plus the millions of Americans who bought houses they couldn't afford and the banks that were free to give them the money.

You are an idiot.

Common Sense   November 20th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

It's time for America to take it lumps. The financial bailout will unfortunately end up costing more and making things worse. And now the auto industry wants their share. The big 3 are poorly run companies that have made lousy cars that help the oil companies get richer. Even when they try to make fuel efficient cars, their reputation (lousy unreliable junk cars) precedes them.

It's time to let them go bankrupt so they can get rid of inefficient greedy management and the union contracts that would bankrupt any business. If any employees that make about $70/hr haven't saved enough money to last a year without a job, they deserve what they get.

If the American public bails the auto industry out again, we will see very little change in the way things are run there and they will be back (in their corporate jets) the next time the economy takes a downturn.

Honda, Toyota and the Europeans don't seem to have any problem competing.

New Yorker   November 20th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Ha, what a joke! The dems have been in control of congress for 2 years and they never showed us a plan. Look who's talking!!!

Molly   November 20th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Don't do it! The Japanese auto makers with factories in this country are doing great! Clearly there is a reason the americans are failing and they should not be rewarded.

RaeNanda Pointer   November 20th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

It was the Republicans who didn't want the bailout of the auto companies until they fixed their business plans. Now the Dems are claiming this was their idea? The dishonesty by liberals continues....

Tony From Michigan   November 20th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Just as soon as AIG and Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and the rest of the white collar companies belly up to the bar and give up part of their pensions and benefits and bonuses and planes I will be happy to do the same

N. S. Huntsville, Al   November 20th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Look I think they should be saved but those cars are worth a crap and plus they shipped jobs overseas to get cheap labor and they came out with BS cars. The problem is USA has to pick up the pace with new creative ideas, foreign cars look nicer, run better and they last a lot longer. But they gave money to AIG and they let them get there nails and toes done so why so hard on the automobile industry?

Matt   November 20th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

It's simple. The big 3 have been making a product that is bad for America and their bank account shows this. If we don't bail them out they will go under and not make these gas guzzling eco unfriendly need to buy oil from countrys that hate us 20th century style cars anymore right?

Ask yourself where is the downside? Thousand of people out of work. Depressed economy blah blah blah.

So then we need to bail them out or people go hungry. Then we make it part of the deal that they can no longer make a car that runs on gas anymore ever. The cars they make are not selling anyway. They sit around in port cities waiting for someone to buy what no one wants anymore. If their employees are currently getting paid to make cars no one wants. Then if they want our money to help them then make this a condition of the loan.

I think every American can live with what they have or with whats sitting in a lot for next 5 years while we retool the american auto industry so that it only makes cars we want to buy that run on something other than gas.

It's a Win Win situation. To give them money to make the same lousy cars they put out now would be insanity.

Barbara in NC   November 20th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

No one loans me money without me showing what it's for and how I can pay it back.

Same treatment for the folks making multi-millions a year. Begging, -- shame, shame, shame

Karmadave   November 20th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

The American Auto Industry as we know it is dead! The only question is will a new, leaner, more efficient one emerge or will it disappear altogether? The current business model is clearly not sustainable in a Global Economy regardless of the current financial crisis. This crisis has simply hastened the inevitable.

The solution is NOT to prop up these inefficient behemoths, but to re-organize the industry around a few fuel-efficient brands produced in the US at much lower cost and better quality. This is one of the key challenges facing the Obama Administration and they haven't even been sworn into office...

gary n.   November 20th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

What the Big 3 are asking for the Bush administration spends in Iraq every 2 to 3 months. We think nothing of writing a 15 billion dollar check to some African government for aids research. Year after year after year. Every time there's an earthquake or some other natural disaster somewhere in the world there we are handing out billions. We still subsidize farmers in this country to not grow something. What's wrong with taking care of our own once in a while? We are talking about a staggering loss of jobs here in a very short time. Our economy ( or what's left of it ) will not be able to take it.

Lizz   November 20th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Tax the greedy CEOs more and use the money to create new jobs for the people they laid off. These CEOs never learn their lesson.

Richie   November 20th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

The "plan" should be to file for bankruptcy. Get this, "big three", and all the rest of you car makers, too: We don't want vehicles that require gasoline to run. We don't want them; we won't buy them. They are obsolete. Make viable vehicles or go away.

Georgia Gal   November 20th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

David,

You've got it backwards. The market started to tank before Obama went ahead in the polls. He went ahead in the polls only after the market started to crash, because most people realized that he was the person that was best suited to handle it (why do you think that in every poll when asked who would best handle the financial crisis the overwhelming response was Obama). Even McCain himself said he didn't understand the economy and I don't know about you, but I sure as heck don't want someone like that even attempting to handle it.

Mike   November 20th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Impeach Reid, Pelosi, Frank and Dodd-the true reasons for this economic mess. Duhbama and the rest of these idiots have all sold us out.

Joyce in Florida   November 20th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Sounds like the right thing to do to me. No more handouts. We taxpayers haven't even seen accountability and transparency from the last bailout. Enough is enough. No more money until a plan is proposed. And, there definitely has to be stipulations that we as taxpayers can see where our money is going. Words are not enough. They didn't keep their word on this $700 billion bailout. I feel like we have been bamboozled.

Beverly, NYC   November 20th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

It's about time someone held the big threes's feet to the fire. The gov't should learn the lessons from AIG, big bailout while they continue business as usual, fetting their executives etc. Any company who comes to the trough hat in hand should have to open their books before the gov't throws good money after bad. It was this rampant irresponsibility from wall street to main street that has the country in this economic mess.

David November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET: How is this Obama's fault? I suppose spending 10 billion a month on 2 wars for 6 years had nothing to do with it, nor did re-regulation, so these fat cats can walk away anually this million dollar bonuses and private planes. I'm glad ingrates like you are getting out of the "investing business", I am using this downturn as a buying opportunity because my belief and faith in America is bigger than any one man.

Lizz   November 20th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Get rid of the CEOs and hire new ones. So many people are more qualified to run the companies than those clowns.

Jim   November 20th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

The domestic automobile industry is an integral part of the U.S. economy, representing 4% of our nations GDP. One in ten jobs depend on the American auto industry, employing 2.9 million people. The industry generates $22.2 billion in annual wages, $102 billion in health care coverage, purchases $156 billion in supplier goods and services and invests $12 billion in research and development.

This week in Congress, the domestic auto industry is asking for a $25 billion loan to help keep the engine humming during these rough economic times.

Consider the alternative. Consider it a bargain.

Adam Habib Dallas, TX   November 20th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I am a proud democrate and die-hard Obama supporter. But I can not support this bail out. These executives and boards need to go away first. They did harm to the company, to economy, to environment and to consumers by giving them cars that do not last. I am sick and tired of these bail out non-sense. Let me file chapter 11, clean out UAW mess, fire all executives along with board and then we will talk.

DavidYouareanIdiot   November 20th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

David you are an idoiot how is it obama fault, if you can not see what the Bush admistratin and The Gop have done to this country for the last eight years you are an idiot and your kidding yourself.

dm   November 20th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

They should take the rest of the Bail out money and give everyone in the US enough to pay off their mortgage, if they don't have a mortgage, they must use it for credit card debt, or anything that involves paying off a debt to a bank. That way the banks get their money, people have more money in their pocket and the economy will boom again.

virginia for obama   November 20th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

DAVID, YOU'RE STUPID. GET SOME HELP.

Lizz   November 20th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

If taxpayers help them, what can they do to help the taxpayers?

Can they stop laying off people and take other measures to cut cost such as slashing their salaries and selling away their private jets?

G.R.I.T. - Girl Raised in the South   November 20th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Griff said: ...We are useing Millions of times More Electonics… This Planet is Saturated with Static…. *It is one Gigantic Electic Field An Electrode Hugmongous.

--------
Now we know what's wrong with Griff. Someone get him a tinfoil hat, please!

Scott Tucson   November 20th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Folks I guess it will take all of us to call, write or email our clowns in DC and tell them NO on the bailout! Our voice worked last year when the pro-amnesty politicians backed down when attempting to force an amnesty bill down our throats.

Laura   November 20th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

take all the executive salaries over 500K a year in the big 3, add it up and let GM use that for some cash to tide them over.....

Reality   November 20th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Funny, two days ago the headline was "GOP blocking bailout, demanding more from automakers." Funny how things change..

Not Automatic   November 20th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

This is a smart move. So those CEO wants money from the government, the government is obligated to say "show us what you will do with our money if we invest in you." If they can't come up with one then don't expect the government to hand over a dime. And even if they come up with something, it's not an automatic giveaway either.

Obama08   November 20th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

These guys will come up with a plan to get even richer. They need to sell the private jets, executive pay cuts (and probably fire them), renegotiate labor contracts to more resonable levels, produce efficient vehicles with increased quality.

Dave, Central Illinois   November 20th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Oh great. The very same stooges that helped to get us into this economic mess are in this picture. What a collection of idiots. Pelossi/Reed/Dodd – insert stooge music here...

Vernon, Portland, OR, USA   November 20th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Detriot PR has gone to hell! Bigwigs in expensive suits getting off company jets into luxury vans. Beggers around here sit on the pavement holding homemade signs, not really home made, because they do not have homes. They give a thank you and a God Bless when they get some spare change.

Just saw the Movie "Who Killed the Electric Car". The Auto Industry sure got away with grand larceny there.

Chuck   November 20th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Lets make this perfectly clear to all the republicans bashing the democratic leadership. The economic mess is the fault of the republicans lack of leadership, and deregulation from Reagan, through Bush 1 and Bush 2. You forget under Clinton the country saw astounding economic growth. As the American people loose faith in their leadership, the economy goes down the tubes. It has happened throughout history. The fact that the democrats want to bail out the auto industry isn't for the executives, it is for the million plus jobs that would be lost if any one of the big three go down. Look at all the jobs lost in the past 8 years. Some of the worst numbers in history. I guarantee the democrats will not let this happen under their watch. They are true leaders when it comes to average Americans in crisis. PERIOD!!!

Joe Orlando   November 20th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

what a bunch of hypocrytes on the hill. They gave a bail to the bankers and insurance big business, no questions asked and no requirement for a plan, even though they caused this mess. Now that the auto industry comes with a handout all of the sudden they require a plan

ShawnT   November 20th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

I swear to God...these idiots BETTER NOT try to puppet Obama into doing their useless bidding.

Obama, humor them...but please, you can do much better if you just disregard these clowns.

hilary   November 20th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Very wise decision.

hugh ~ california   November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Any corporation facing financial collapse and asking for federal aid should not be allowed to give out bonuses, and the salaries starting at the top should be cut in half–at the very minimum–for the next two or three years–that includes The Big 3.
Democrats, you need to be tough in these negotiations–this is no time to wimp-out and give away the money without restrictions. All the money must be spent on and in America–no exceptions and no bonuses!

gb   November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Excellent response – nothing should be approved until all i's are dotted and t's are crossed and a complete and full plan of action is detailed, etc.. That is no different than in any busines.

Brooke in PA   November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Good lord, the only person in that entire picture I have any respect for is Schumer and his face is hidden. The rest of them are all tools.

Oh and don't bail out the auto industry. Because then where will it end?

David   November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Everyone with money is getting out of the investing business. I took my money out in September when I saw Obama winning the presidency. It looks like everyone else with any money is finally getting it. If you don't think this is Obama's fault, your kidding yourself.

Rob   November 20th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

To California Gold November 20th, 2008 4:36 pm ET – That isn't gonna happen because the auto unions all backed Obama, and hey, he's gotta start payin back the favors. And as we'll all soon find out with Obama, it's cronies first, America, hmmm, maybe.

Rey   November 20th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Hello,
Pls. do not allow bail out until these CEO's reduced thier income/pays.

Thank you

Greg in MN   November 20th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Only give them aid if they use the money to keep their employees, change what kind of cars they are making and streamline the process of making those cars.

Not a penny needs to go the CEO's or their families! In fact, make it a condtion that the current Top Dogs get a pink slip! Wagoner is as greedy as they come and has no idea how to run a company full of people! He thinks about them all as numbers...not humans.

And take Ford out of this equation! Their CEO has said they can last until the end of 2009 without a bail out.

MICK from MESA   November 20th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Congress to their Wall Street cronies:
How about a bailout? Is $700 Billion enough?

Congress to the US auto industry and its workers:
You need a $25 Billion Bridge Loan? DROP DEAD!

no way   November 20th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

I say NO!NO!NO! to the auto bail out. For years these fat cats have lived high on the hog while other hard working Americans struggle with two incomes to make it. Unions have ruined the country time to shut them all down!!!!!!!!

Rob   November 20th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Why the heck not? The Dems want to be in control of everything, they want everyone to come to them to help them with whatever. Got a problem, hey, the Dems will take care of it. Let's bail everyone out!

Thanks Dems! I was so tired of living in the best country in the world. Now thanks to you and what you will unleash upon this country, my children and possibly even grandchildren can look forward to a live of slackers, handouts, 5th rate healthcare, no national security, rampant unemployment, maybe a stock market that can stay above 1,000.

Hopefully 5 years from now, when this band of fools is run out of town, the damage won't be too bad or take too long to fix.

Ben - Portland, Or   November 20th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

How are we a free market economey if we keep propping up business? Don't bail them out, let them all go under and restructure under bankruptcy agreements. Fire the execs and give the UAW the finger, while you're at it.

If you really want to "bail out" someone, why don’t you come up with a bailout plan for people with +$20K in student loans who are in health care, education and social services?

Mike, Syracuse NY   November 20th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Big 3 spend plan:
1. Take money
2. Buy more corporate jets and give yourselves a big bonus.
3. Negotiate tough union concessions by only paying them $74/hr instead of $75
4. Repeat in 6 months.

Griff, maybe should should take to wearing a tin foil hat to protect yourself from all the static out there. It'll help with the alien mind probes too for the next time you're abducted.

A Canuck   November 20th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

These CEOs just don't get it.....they need a smack in the head to smarten them up.

Silence Dogood   November 20th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

if Obama and the DNC didn't have to show a plan that wasn't rehashed fuzzy-speak, why does the auto industry?

The auto industry should do the same thing. Blame their situation on racism and Hillary. Say they are all for Change (not necessary to define it). Then smile and hold out their hands for the money.

Gary, Georgia   November 20th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

To LyonsPhilly,

Well said. Only part I disagree with is to cut their big salaries in half. They need to be fired! The "BIG 3" aren't going to change anything about the way they do business until they are restructured from the top down!

Ian Minneapolis, MN   November 20th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

It better be the most thoroughly regulated plan in the history of MANKIND!!! It specifically say everything they will do to make up for what they've done to this great nation. And if it doesn't....don't give them ANYTHING!

Desert Strom Vet   November 20th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Too Honest?

Scott Tucson   November 20th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

LOL! It was Dodd, Shumer and ol' Barney Frank that started this economic mess we're in and they're telling auto industry how to straighten up their mess?

"This is an important industry in our country and we intend to save it," Pelosi said." No matter that the majority of Americans are against the bailout . So much for serving the will of the people.

Spencer/NY to VA   November 20th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

It would have been better off for the Big 3 to have come prepared with a plan already. These are CEO's and this is the way they conduct business? How can you come to Congress asking for a handout when your company jet requires $20,000 to fly roundtrip, when on the other hand a commercial flight for one person is around $300 roundtrip.

California Gold   November 20th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I say let the United States Bankruptcy Court (the Federal court system) help the Big Three reorganize and chart a course under the watchful eye of the United States Trustees. Talk about forcing accountability! If Congress starts mainlining cash, it will be the same as AIG and the $700 Billion. Party! Party! Party!

Griff   November 20th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Global Warming is Man-Made!!! Anybody that klnow even the Basics about Electicity.. Knows this... Why try to cover it Up.. We are useing Millions of times More Electonics... This Planet is Saturated with Static.... *It is one Gigantic Electic Field An Electrode Hugmongous..
My Opinion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous   November 20th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

It's not $25 million, it billion, with a "B"

LyonsPhilly   November 20th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Make them sell those doggone jets they flew over in and cut their big salaries in half....Let them tighten their waistbands as we have to when times gets rough....Ridiculous....

Scott NYC Independent   November 20th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

I'm not sure how they did it but considering that 300 billion has been spent and it seems no one knows where it went or to whom; considering that we have already loaned the big 3 over 35 million and their back for more and considering the lack of oversight I'm sure this all has something to do with the Bush Administration and someone out there receiving a tax free windfall. Like when Bush Adminstration sent million of dollars to Iraq in plastic wrap and we never learned what happened to millions that went missing. Its all to convenient and smells of Chenny.

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