As for the vote in the House. There are a bunch of people up for reelection who care whether they get reelected or not. They voted the way they did because their constituents are royally pissed off (and with good reason). However, the so-called bailout has never been properly explained to people. In 2-3 years, it might even have made taxpayers a profit, but at the worst, should have lost a very minimum because the government would then be selling the equities they buy now.

The down side if the House doesn't act: credit markets freeze (they're pretty well there), some businesses go out, few people buy cars so dealers don't order so auto makers lay off people since they have to cut production. This whole thing trickles down into almost every part of the economy. Unemployment surges, you'll be limited as to where you can use your credit cards, if at all. Don't plan on buying that water heater at Lowe's or your local hardware store; they need cash and won't take your credit card. And you have no cash because you got no raise (or lost your job) and... on and on and on.

You explain it well enough to people, they'll settle for the best deal they can get under the circumstances.

And truthfully, Pelosi should keep her friggin' mouth shut! I've had a bellyful of partisan shit (here and in the House! and from McCain).

And on a final note: I never thought I'd say this but Bush is almost sounding Presidential, now that he's on his way out. And man, does he look -- er bushed. I almost feel sorry for the man but I'll be so glad when he's gone.