I was surprised it failed.  I realize that the concept of a bailout is extremely unpopular right now, and many of our Congressmen are running for re-election, but this is no time to be playing politics.  I think a part of the responsibility one has when elected to office is to do what is best for their constituents... sometimes, that means making tough, and even unpopular, decisions.

I don't like this bailout either - but the alternative could be much worse.  Something has to be done, and if not this, they need to come up with a plan that they can all vote for.  This really should be a bi-partisan bill.  I thought it was going to be bi-partisan, but Nancy Pelosi's speech on Sunday killed any hope for solidarity.  It was one of the most divisive, inappropriate political speeches I have heard in a long time. 

It is a shame.  I think the Democrats had some good ideas.  I think the bankruptcy changes they wanted would have been a good move, but that got dropped as a part of the compromise.  Unfortunately, the Democrats, particularly Pelosi, would rather use this opportunity to score some political points by blaming Republicans, than actually get things done.

There is plenty of blame to go around - both sides should be ashamed of ignoring the warning signs that have been around the past couple of years (at least).  In my opinion, very few of them actually deserve to hold office.  But, this isn't the time for finger pointing.

I think they will try again on Thursday and it will probably pass.  I think they all know that it needs to.  This isn't the form I would like to see for the "Emergency Economic Stabilization Act," but they are only a few votes shy, so I think it will remain mostly intact in its current form.  That may cause some long-term problems, but hopefully, after some time to think about it, they will be able to make some changes. 

Best,
Robert A. Franco
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