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Submitted by beanie (not verified) on Tue, 2008-12-09 23:39.

As a libertarian, I'm curious myself, if you were to deduct the cost of federal regulation, environmental regulation and governmental support of the UAW from each domestic car, would the price per product be more competitive? Furthermore, calculate the amount of money paid in taxes and the money asked for by the domestic automakers. How does that pan out?

As a libertarian, I oppose the bailout, but it's disingenuous to pretend that the situation they find themselves in is completely their own fault. Ask yourself how the UAW got as much power as they have. Was it in any way influenced by government interference in the market?

Also, they've paid large amounts in federal and state taxes. Am I to assume every libertarian refused their rebate check or refuses to drive on public roads?

As I said, I oppose the bailout, there are rational, principled reasons against it, however, glib sarcasm and cheap jokes are a weak way to make a point. The quality of domestic cars is really not the problem. The inflated cost for their relatively poor quality is. No one complains about a Whopper that costs under $2, everyone complains when you charge $10 for a whopper. Ask yourself what makes up that cost and you'll find the story is more complex than "Van sucks! Booga Booga!" Frankly, the fed is culpable as well. Bust the UAW and relieve the oppressive regulation and the Detroit 3 may have a shot.