Expense of Reactionary Policy

The FINANCIAL CRISIS (yes, it deserves caps) is too serious to allow us the luxury of time. We must act NOW! We must move forward and change laws, ownership structures for banks, taxes, and more. We cannot hold up the confirmation of anyone Obama has suggested to any post in the government. We cannot ask if $800B in a bailout is too much, or even if it is being used properly. We must act NOW!

Yes, I realize that Wall Street is still in denial. I know that their bonuses are still huge, and that average taxpayers are footing the bill. I am well aware that U.S. automakers cannot possibly survive the burden of their labor agreements, and that those business mistakes are being passed on to taxpayers as well. But we must look past these small issues and act NOW! to stimulate the economy. Or else...

When is it enough?

Crisis situations require action. That logic makes sense to me. But they also require thoughtful action. We need to slow down, put the right people in the right leadership positions, and only spend money in areas we feel very strongly about (and can defend in the light of day). Otherwise, we will complicate things and make matters worse.

But what about public perception, you ask? Does it matter what we spend the money on? Isn't the real goal here to simply look like we are trying hard so that investor/consumer confidence is supported? HELL NO! Perception is not that easily managed, and rushing $800B out the door just to be embarrassed by the results will not inspire confidence. Transparency, maturity, and results inspire confidence.

Reactionary Policy will cost us trillions. And as a solid taxpayer I am sick to my stomach at the mistakes I am being asked to cover financially. Please, America, SLOW DOWN!! Breathe. Think. Then act.