The Five People Detroit Needs Most
1. Barack Obama
President-elect, United States of AmericaAlready showing more interest in automakers than George Bush didWhy Prez 44 is important to us: Obama won the election after the previous regime bailed out the financial/banking industry and just as the United States automotive industry found itself on the brink of bankruptcy. With the help of a strong delegation of Michigan Democrats, Obama quickly identified the problem and pressed for a loan guarantee package for Detroit.
What he knows about the industry: That's hard to say. He knows he doesn't know enough, and therefore has indicated that he will name a "car czar" (see No. 2).
What he drives: Hard to say. He reportedly traded in his Chrysler 300 for a Ford Escape Hybrid for the election campaign.
Politics of the issue: Detroit Three executives generally lean heavily toward the Republican party; the unions helped deliver the Blue states for the Democratic president.
Bottom line: Enthusiasts can feel good about this "beyond politics"
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