Big 3 Bailout thoughts

I wrote the following to Sen. Mel Martinez of Florida on his "No" vote to on the "Cloture Motion; Alternative Minimum Tax Relief Act of 2008". A yes vote would have allowed the Senate to move forward on this bill, to which leaders intended to attach auto financing and restructuring legislation

Thank you for voting "No" on the Cloture Motion to the "Alternative Minimum Tax Relief Act of 2008."

While I am fundamentally opposed to government intervention in free markets, that's in large part what got us into the financial and housing meltdown to begin with, if there is going to be government intervention, there must be concessions on "all" sides.

That the unions refused to even consider concessions to help their employers to become more competitive and preserve blue collar jobs is case in point of the arrogance they have fostered.

In tough times everyone needs to be willing to do what is necessary to keep their business viable, unions included.

That said, the very best method for the big 3 to deal with the problem of mismanagement, poor market prognostication and burdensome union contracts is the very Darwinian yet efficient method of Chapter 11 reorganization.

With good decisions they will come out stronger, more competitive and positioned for future growth and profitability without eating at the public trough.

I need my blue collar, Postal Service, earnings to support my family, not those of mis-managers and unionized extravagance.

I wrote a similar note to Sen. Bill Nelson who voted "Yes" on the motion. Except I extended my disappointment at his vote.

We must each become involved in the political process and tell our representatives what we think of their actions. Our Senators and Representatives are in Washington to "represent" each of us, the voter, the constitutent, not their own self interests and personal philosophies.

They must listen to us and seriously consider our wishes on the issues. If not, we have the responsibility in our Republic to go to the voting booth and replace them.

But if we fail to provide guidance and feedback, the onus falls on each of us for the actions they take with which we disagree. So take time to get involved, learn about the issues and write your political representatives, it's your future, and that of your children and grandchildren.

"We are all in the same boat on a stormy sea and
we owe each other a terrible loyalty." - G. K. Chesterson