Auto Bailout or Better Idea?

Instead of bailing out the auto industry, how about a tax credit of $8,000 to citizens who buy an American car between now and December 31st, with the auto industry being required to offer automobiles at the lowest price they have ever forwarded? How many cars would be sold this way, and what would the impact be for the auto industry? Also, the government could buy back old gas-guzzlers for $3,000 a piece, regardless of shape or age, as long as they are registered. This, with the $8,000 tax credit if a citizen bought a new car, would help individuals and families, give a shot in the arm to the auto industry, help the climate, and stimulate the economy. Even though we know the auto industry has to retool and develop new models, streamlining their efforts, we also know there is a glut of new cars sitting on lots across the nation. Such a stimulus as outlined above would move many of these. It is only a short-term fix, but it may provide the impetus to get us through the current crisis as we shape the American auto industry for the future. Get your numbers crunchers to work. We need answers and we need them quick. Have ideas, will travel. Samuel Margolies