Most Americans oppose auto bailout

A Washington Post/ABC News poll reveals that a majority of Americans are opposed to a government bailout of the auto industry:

Overall, 55 percent of those polled oppose the latest plan that Chrysler, Ford and General Motors executives pitched to Congress last week, on par with public opposition to earlier, pricier efforts. But with 42 percent support, the new request for up to $14 billion in emergency loans has more backers than previous proposals to secure up to $34 billion in loan guarantees.

But as with the earlier bids, those who strongly oppose the measure greatly outnumber those who are strongly supportive.

The poll found that 75% of respondents blamed the industry’s problems on corporate management at the Big Three automakers. 60% said that it would be good for the economy if the companies were forced to declare bankruptcy.