This Weekend's Contemplation - The Mix of Politics and Economics and its Effects on 2009

"Below is an editorial I found in the WSJ that discusses the current economic situation and the part that politics will play in the process. The editorial is fascinating for two reasons: 1) it acknowledges the current situation is no longer in the hands of the "market' and is now in the hands of the politicians (i.e. TARP,the stimulus package, etc.), 2) by definition this will lead to inefficiencies (improper distribution of resources due to political considerations), and 3) this will bring into play an entire new set of considerations (i.e. political ramifications of buying all the US and UK debt). I usually do not pay much attention to politics, buy whether we like it or not the "camel has it's nose under the tent". This will what is going to make a tough 2009 even tougher. "