The "big three" more clueless than NFL referees
Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 07:35AM Seems like the big three automakers need just as much assistance with pr as they do making cars ... which is to say, a lot.
For the second day in a row, the CEO's of Ford, GM and Chrysler went testifying before Congress with hat in hand looking for a bailout.
But the story today isn't necessarily about the $25 billion bailout, or what will happen if they all file bankruptcy ... The three morning shows and the cable programs led with the fact that they flew to Washington on their private jets, even though they're all practically bankrupt.
Congress and the media are having a field-day with this -- and rightfully so. It looks ridiculous, and completely out of touch, for the three amigos to beg for handouts while maintaining a fleet of corporate jets. It would be like taking a limousine to the unemployment line.
Come on guys, pretend that you get it; suffer the indignity of flying commercial. You would think impending bankruptcy would bring a little humility to the almighty three, but evidently not. It'll be interesting to see if they down size their corporate jet fleet or continue with "air bailout".
Reader Comments (3)
I have to admit I found Waggoner's OpEd in the NYT rather compelling - as a two-GM car household, I can validate much of what he said about Detroit closing the gap on quality, performance, etc. Now it's time to unshackle the Big Three from some of the more restrictive commitments for the betterment of the trickle down job effect. Granted the term trickle down isn't in vogue, but the financial and infrastructure of losing a competitive, sustainable auto industry would be crippling.
I agree with your point, and his. I'm just pointing out how tone deaf they are. The little things add up. Symbolism counts.
I find it funny when politicians make it a point to rip at corporate greed...these are people that have a car service that takes them to and from work every day, a lifetime guaranteed pension and health insurance, personal aides that do everything but brush their teeth in the morning.
I really don't know where I lean on this bailout v non-bailout, but I always get a kick out of listening to politicians acts like they really give a cr-p about excess and greed.