If I remember, you're from Michigan, like myself and work for a car dealership? I would be really interested to hear your perspective.
I don't like the idea of a bailout, but I'm worried for my home state!
Stephanie is correct that I do fixed-ops (service/warranty) work for a regional auto group, though I'm not anywhere near Michigan.
Yes, our auto group is heavily GM-weighted. However, of the three carlines I personally handle, only one is GM-branded. (It's a Cadillac store.)
So, Stephanie, since you asked nicely, here's my opinion:
I am sickened and repulsed at what's going on. I'm embarrassed, at a deep personal level, that a company with which I'm affiliated is begging at the taxpayer window. And despite any ramifications for my personal employment, I am singularly against any automaker bailout — just as I've been against every bailout foisted upon the American public so far.
I've debated for hours on whether or not to post on this topic, since it hits so close to home for me. I could probably write about it for hours, too, but I won't.
I will simply say that if I were, in fact, to contact my congressmen (as the multiple emails from GM have advised dealership personnel to do) ... well, those GM suits would be less than pleased at the stance I'd take with my representatives.
In my world, there is NOTHING more pathetic than a broken, mismanaged corporation who sees fit to go begging for Uncle Sam handouts when TSHTF.
After decades of knuckle dragging and in-the-ditch decision-making, it is time for the Big Three to take their medicine. And that means bankruptcy.
(Though I suspect that, in the end, some of that sweet sweet gubmint cash will once again delay Detroit's day of reckoning.)
Hopefully, Stephanie, this answers your question. I'll finish up by seconding a thought from Senator Richard Shelby:
Labels: Automobiles