Hypocrisy at its Best

So in the latest rounds of hearings at the United States House of Representatives, Lord Speaker Pelosi admonished the CEOs of the Big 3 (Ford, Chrysler and GM) for using taxpayer-footed private jets. In fact, Congress delayed the hearings on the auto bailout amid criticism of their use.

But alas, who could forget the head lines in early 2007, "Pentagon Rejects Spealer Pelosi's Request for Military Aircraft" (ABC news). Apparently, the plane used by the previous speaker, Dennis Hastert was not good enough for Pelosi who wanted a plane that could reach California without refueling. I know. Heaven forbid a Congresswomen must subject herself to the same tortures of a layover faced by everyday Americans.

So what exactly did Princess Pelosi want? A 45 passenger C-32 Aircraft. Features: A private stateroom, communications center, entertainment center, changing room, oh and a small, trifle of a $22,000 per day operating budget. Now that's what I call a private jet.

But let's hold up more deficit spending (which I know, may actually work according to leading economists) to admonish executives just for getting what we wanted and were denied. Double standards are wonderful aren't they?