GOP Wants Cash for Clunkers to Fail Because It's Helping Mainstreet America Economically. But It's Too Late.

BUZZFLASH EDITOR'S BLOG

By Mark Karlin

Ah sure, the Republican Capitol Hill "Cash and Carry" politicians don't like the "clunker" rebates because the more fuel efficient new cars will make us less dependent on oil and reduce pollution.  It's a given that they would detest it for those reasons alone.

But the heart of their opposition to "cash for clunkers" is that it's a win-win success for Mainstreet America:

1) Surplus inventory that is forcing the automobile industry to lay off and furlough workers is sold off, resulting in unemployed people involved in the auto industry going back to work.

2) The hike in employment and in car industry cash flow results in more consumer spending, which helps the economy in general.

3) Car owners will find that they are paying less at the gas pump and have more in their wallet as a result.

4) The Detroit car industry gets a shot in the economic arm (even though foreign car manufacturers also make out big).

But reason number 5 is the killer.  It's the same reason that the GOP -- in addition to humongous campaign contributions -- is against a government option on healthcare, not to mention single payer.

Reason number 5 is the same reason no Republican would vote to eliminate Medicare.

Reason number 5 is that the "cash for clunkers" program is so popular with Mainstreet Americans that it makes them feel more positive about the national government.  My God, it's kind of like a tax break, but coming from the Democrats, but it benefits middle Americans, not just the tiny percentage of super wealthy, and it boosts the economy by increasing production -- not by just tossing 2 trillion dollars into the Wall Street gambling casino that only produces embossed paper shares that have little anchoring real value and gambling debts from the likes of derivatives.

Yes, the "cash for clunkers" additional 2 billion dollars will pass the Senate before adjournment because the horse is out of the barn, and the GOP won't be able to placate enraged potential car buyers with Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh "white victim" demagoguery if they filibuster it.

Consumers know a bargain -- and they're glad to get it from their government.

It's the biggest fear of the Republicans that if this were to ever happen to healthcare, through a government option or Medicare for everyone, that the tide would turn and Americans would start embracing federal programs instead of scorning them as the "fixed market for big-profit winners" pick their pockets.

"Cash for Clunkers" is a mini-version of what the Republican "leadership" is desperately and dangerously trying to keep from happening with healthcare; the passage of legislation for the common good that would make Americans feel good about their government and angry at how the "fixed market" had taken them for an economic ride over the cliff.

BUZZFLASH EDITOR'S BLOG