U.S. auto bailout raised at Toyota hearings

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Republicans found themselves in a tough situation during the Toyota safety hearing Tuesday. Generally supportive of big business, Republicans had to be careful not to be seen as blocking an investigation of consumer complaints.

In general, Republicans urged caution in the congressional investigation, reminding their colleagues of the good that Toyota has done as an employer and in producing a more environmentally friendly vehicle.

But then there is the question of the U.S. taxpayer-financed bailout of the American auto industry, in effect, making the U.S. government a partner of Toyota’s competitors.

Did United States regulators go easy on Toyota because of the taxpayer investment Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.) asked. “Just because I’m paranoid, doesn’t mean somebody isn’t out to get me,” he said.

--Michael Muskal

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