Nobody ever said there wouldn't be bumps in the road. I generally think that Obama has done a bang-up job thus far, but this AIG bonus thing certainly brought out a pretty visceral reaction in me. In some ways, I see it as almost a "let them eat cake," kind of moment that indicates how far afield these Financial Execs really are from the rest of us in Mind and Spirit. On the other hand I really worry that these bastards have been playing this game ever since they realized the system was headed for a breakdown, and as a result they've used their knowledge and position to manipulate it further for their benefit.
With headline articles like this on Huffington Post
The constant barrage of diaries here on Banking Issues and implications of theft or fraud and money going to banks in the Caribbean: Pluto's Most Recent
Its been a bit difficult to remain upbeat. I sincerely hope that Obama directs his attention toward this issue and comes up with some actions that alleviate the problem. The Rage out there is very real, and its very bi-partisan. If he does not do some things that are both real and symbolic about this abuse and the concerns about elites working the system this will cause problems. I guarantee there are Republicans figuring ways to utilize the justified populist anger. This is a simple issue that can easily be manipulated. I have faith in Obama, my numerous diaries have nearly put me in the category of a "True Believer," regarding Obama, but he's got to knock this one away. People have to have something that makes them feel their government is on this in a fair way.
I really hope in the next few weeks that we can clearly see that the new boss is not the same as the old boss. I know he is different, but real quick, he has to prove it once again. In the meantime, I'll listen to the song, and hope for the best.