Interesting how some of the fiercest defenders of the ruthless efficiency of free markets are suddenly less enthusiastic when it comes to car dealers in their states or districts. Decades worth of bumbling, stumbling, piss-poor management on the part of GM and Chrysler could not in the end withstand the ravages of the economic meltdown. The free market wreaked its vengeance on poor performers.

 

Now, though, when the "invisible hand" hits close to home with the car companies closing dealerships on a massive scale, some republican senators and house members are raising a stink. But wait. How can they suggest that the government has any role in an economic decision a car company makes?

 

Isn't that...horrors! Socialism?