"Proponents say the program ... is desperately needed to lift slumping car sales."

In other words, it's a jobs bill. And a recklessly irresponsible one at that. One has to wonder whether this administration's left hand knows what the right hand is talking about, there are so many mixed signals.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124050774521848777.html

Just think how much money has already gone to subsidize excess outsized energy gushing houses and SUVs, both through the mortgage interest deductions (many of the SUVs were bought with HELOCs) and bailouts of defaults. The reality is going to be horrific financial constraints going forward -- over and above what was inevitable due to unfunded senior benefits.

Now the question is whether all this money showered on the auto industry is easing a transition or preventing it.

It would nice if as part of this cash for clunkers bill a few nickels were included to fund the start up costs of NY's bike share. At least enough to offset a few months of the interest New Yorkers who didn't buy SUVs will have to pay for the rest of their lives on the related federal debt.

And it would be nice to have some loan and purchase guarantees to subsidize the production of commuter bike inventory and related accessories (locks, helmets, safety vests), as well as new cars.

He should be held accountable for his words which are part of the public record and indicates the technological trajectory he wants to at least, explore.