Tuesday, August 04, 2009

A Mind Like An Unmade Bed

PhotobucketThe title says it all. There is so much I want to say about the healthcare debate that the words are just rattling around my head like a pinball machine. That is to say, my thoughts are scattered.

So, while I'm trying to pull myself together, I'd like to say a few words about "Cash for Clunkers." It has been wildly successful.

Naturally, the Republicans are agin' it, although that doesn't stop a bunch of them from jumping on the bandwagon and "cash"-ing in on it. They continue to complain about the billions being spent and the restrictions placed on it. But, they can't find a way to call it a failure. Here are a few things "Cash for Clunkers" has accomplished:

1. It has gotten some gas guzzlers off the road, replacing them with new, fuel efficient vehicles. No "previously owned" vehicles are available.

2. It has helped car dealers' clear their lots just in time for the 2010 models to come out.

3. It will encourage auto manufacturers to build more eco-friendly cars that get ever better mileage.

4. It helps the middle-class, something the Republicans seem to hate to do.

But, I think Jay hit upon the real reason the Republicans in the House and Senate do't like "Cash for Clunkers". They haven't been able to find a way to enrich themselves through it.

Stay tuned.

14 comments:

kenju said...

I love you and Jay!

Darlene said...

Jay is one smart fella! He 'nailed' it.

Going Like Sixty said...

I heard an interview with an owner of 20 dealerships. He admitted sales were crazy...but... he was complaining about the amount of paperwork and how long he had to wait to get his money (it had been five days.)
Obvious Republican fat cat getting fatter of CARS program and he was slamming the program.

Looking to the Stars said...

Good post, Jay's right :)

Grayquill said...

Betty – I can’t believe I am commenting on something I know nothing about but have you lost your mind?...did you forget the feds had to borrow the money for this great scheme. It has to be paid back sometime and with interest. What is it about Americans or maybe just Democrats wanting something for nothing and thinking that is in some way good? Ugh!

Betty said...

Kenju, Darlene and Looking to the Stars: Thanks. I think Jay is pretty smart, too.

Going Like Sixty: He probably thinks the money is going to run out before he cashes in.

Grayquill: My mind? I know I must have put it somewhere around here. My post must have struck a nerve. We have been borrowing money for years, and most of it has gone to pay for that abominable "war". So, borrowing money to help the country recover from the consequences of that "war" doesn't seem all that wrong to me.

Wanna fight? lol

Margaret said...

You and Jay are "spot on"! Hopefully, the groaners that really need to be off the road will be off....Mine, though, didn't have a chance to go to Clunkersville! I would liked to have seen the fixed income people that NEED a better car, have a little chance at a good 2-3 year old car, too! But, that is me and they are them...I am sure there was lots of scamming during this "Cash for Clunkers"...
(sigh)...Who knows?
Good post, Betty..

Dianne said...

I loved this post Betty but what I loved even more was your reply to Grayquill (and no, I don't want to fight with him, we just met and I like him)

I never heard any wailing over billions spent on Haliburton contracts and the mercenaries who undermine our own soldiers

unfortunately my car doesn't qualify as a clunker
it's old and needs more and more repairs all the time
my disability is still under review
I'm still trying to find health insurance I can afford
and on and on and on
worked all my life
always paid my taxes

I despise how the Republicans and media like Fox misrepresent the character of people who need programs and incentives and bonuses
they had no trouble deregulating the entire financial system so that crooks and creeps made billions

Oy! I could go on and on

Joy Des Jardins said...

Good post Betty...and Jay's a smart cookie. My daughter just bought a new car, but her old car didn't qualify for a 'clunker,' but she still got a pretty good deal...as deals go these days.

Grayquill said...

I had a really great come back but I think I have lost my mind too.
Oh, yeah here it is. Save the country? That's a good one. The Clunker deal so far, after running out of money, has already saved our country by effecting less than 1/10th of one percent of the pollution gas guzzler problem. Great job Democrats take a bow, you should be so proud, more fan fare please.

Grayquill said...

Oh btw, my most current post you will so appreciate.
http://www.grayquillmusings.com/2009/08/depraved-troll.html

Tincanman said...

Right on! And, Jay hit the proverbial nail on the head.

Chancy said...

Betty
You haven't lost your mind. You are speaking the truth and someimes the truth hurts.

Betty said...

Grayquill: Thank you, thank you (taking a bow).

Tincanman: Jay is pretty astute, I must say.

Chancy: Thanks. I just never know when the old brain is going to shut down.

Joy: My car is 15 years old and looks like something the Joads took to California, but it doesn't qualify. Go Figure!

Margaret: I would have liked to see people be able to choose a used car, but only new ones are allowed.

Dianne: As I told Joy, my car doesn't qualify. But, nevermind. And, I like Grayquill, too.