Democrats Prod Automakers on Mileage (AP)

Source: Associated Press

Democrats Prod Automakers on Mileage

By NEDRA PICKLER
The Associated Press
Sunday, May 13, 2007; 3:47 PM

WASHINGTON -- Democratic-controlled Washington stepped in to help
save Chrysler nearly 30 years ago when the automaker was on the verge
of bankruptcy due to lackluster sales of its fuel-thirsty vehicles.

With the Big Three struggling again, many political leaders now are
taking Detroit to task for failing to do more to reduce how much gas
their vehicles use. The Democratic presidential candidates are pledging
tougher gas mileage rules. Automakers say such changes would hurt an
industry already down.

But the political climate is turning against the companies. Concern is
increasing about global warming. Pump prices are high. People are
worried about U.S. dependence on oil from the Middle East.

"We're talking about saving the auto industry from itself," said Sen.
Chris Dodd, who is proposing the highest increase of any presidential
candidate.

-snip-

Read more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/13/AR2007051300544.html

Dems from MI won't go along with any new standards.

Otherwise progressive politicians like Levin and Conyers are completely beholden to the automakers. Rather than simply pander to them and accept their campaign contributions, how about holding them accountable for bad decisions? Instead I hear Dems from this state fall back on the tired "blame the Japanese" tactic. Time for these companies and the politicians that pander to them to get their heads out of their asses.