Should the US bailout the big three automakers?

[RedBarchetta]

Bob, we still make the BEST laser-guided bomb/missile on the freakin' planet. And we don't need a vehicle production facility to manufacture that. I hear what you're saying, but since you've taken this thread toward more of a war-preparedness angle, allow me to share a quote:

"I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones." - Albert Einstein

If our borders were ever breached, no amount of amory is going to matter. It will be a different war theater, much bleaker than your worst fears could ever imagine. I personally don't see the cause/effect of reducing our manufacturing capabilities in a 21st century global economy. It's too fluid...resources will be deployed where it's most economical.

And whether we choose to accept it or not, this debate over saving the Big 3 has EVERYTHING to do with protecting the unions. That's what the Democrats support, and now that they have the power they will enforce their will. It's the only economic card they have to play right now. The UAW, over decades, has brought the Big 3 to this very day. Chrysler's mis-steps in the '80s' were merely a distance early warning.

The Big 3 make decent cars...not world class but decent. Their business models are all flecked up though and they haven't re-charted their collective courses fast enough. Now that they are on the edge of the abyss, they start being more public about how they are doing this and doing that. It's too little, too late.

Let the BKs happen, give the dust a chance to settle. A python can't digest a pig quickly...it takes time. Patience is running thin and that is what is causing many at the top to make poor decisions. We have lost our ability to take the LT view and stick to the plan. Everyone wants the quick fix and is afraid to swallow the medicine (no matter how awful it's going to be). I don't care about the rest of my life...God has a plan and will take care of me. I'm worried how it's going to be for my kids. We (our country) are simply not thinking in those terms at the moment.