Why don't we get to the root of the problem? Usually, it's because we would rather swing at meaningless limbs than to get to the core problem and solve it.
Is anyone out there a little suspicious that the 3 largest American car makers ALL decided at the same time that they were upon the brink of total destruction? Is it not a little odd that they all came upon this enlightened state right after our liberal-infested congress handed out millions of our money to banks that had squandered funds previously? A happy coincidence? I think not.
Ford, GM, and Chrysler have known for over a decade that they were running on borrowed time. They all have tried to adjust, make deals, make wanted cars, and deal with ever-strict CAFE standard as they come down from the government. These companies are top heavy, sluggish, and crippled with a terribly greedy, insane union that refuses to make any concessions. Read: $$$ Meanwhile, Asian companies and German companies continue to be more innovative, less top heavy (in terms of numbers and salaries), more flexible, and make do without unionization. As stated in previous blogs here, the American companies will never see any true, lasting change as long as the UAW is a part of who they are. And the UAW will never give up its grip until the companies are dead and gone. A grim picture.
The big three bosses are lobbying for money to pay off UAW debts. A few hundred million here and there will not be enough to make a huge difference. Too much has to happen. It's a pipe dream. And besides, the timing can't be ignored. They didn't go to Washington because they all mystically happened upon the same circumstances at the same time. They descended upon Washington because the vultures were circling and they wanted some free money. End of story.
Whether or not they actually get any money is a truly moot point. $$$ won't solve this problem. Cutting $$$ will. Their top heavy managers will be forced to take a cut, even as their jobs are cut. The UAW will HAVE to make real concessions in benefits and pay scales, which as stated, is as likely as Barny Frank going straight. They will have to become pared down, lithe, financially adjusted businesses that desire more to be viable and competitive, than to be rich and autonomous.
Either way you cut it, harsh events and big time adjustments are coming. Even if GM goes south, some investment group will cash in, buy up tooling, plants, and some of the workers, and make a go at it. Same with Ford, and already happening at Chrysler. 100 year old businesses can, and do, go under, but another upstart waiting for their chance is always waiting in the wings. We can only hope such entrepreneurs will learn from their sluggish, over fed forebears and avoid the same mistakes.
Can we ever hope the same for Congress? Hope seems shallow up against such a thing. Prayer is a far better answer. And vocalization.
By the way, write your representatives often, and pointedly. It's their J O B to listen.
