There is an alternative to bailouts. That is to create a new market for the auto industry. At this time there are more cars in America than people, so who is going to buy new cars in this economy? Perhaps we should follow Germany's example. Cars 10+ years old are not allowed on the highways in Germany. The rationale is environmental. Newer cars have lower emissions and better technology. The side effect is to stimulate Germany's own troubled automakers. Perhaps our tax dollars would be better spent in subsidies to help people buy AMERICAN cars they otherwise could not afford. After they turn in their 10+ year old automobile.