GM needs to government help and it should be given. Yes, they've made crappy cars and SUV's for a long time, ignoring market trends and demands for smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.
First, if we're going to bailout the airline industry, which is probably the most poorly run industry in America, there's no excuse not to bailout automakers. Think about it, airlines would rather fly half-empty planes than sell you a last-minute ticket for less than $1,000. That's like walking into a restaurant without a reservation and the maitre'd saying, "Sorry, sir, unless you have a reservation, you're meal will cost 10 times more than the menu price. Oh, you think that's unfair? Well, even though we have 20 empty tables, we'd rather not have your business. Please leave." Seriously, that's a terrible way to run a business. Moreover, if airlines were smart, which they aren't, they would've hedged their fuel like Southwest did, which is why they operate at a profit. Also, how much sense does it make for an airline to fly thousands of miles out of the way to get someone to their destination? Answer: None.
But enough of my ranting about the airlines. Follow me to the flip to see why I think a bailout is a great idea. (cross posted at WagTheBlog)