Over the past two days, automotive giants Chrysler and GM have been held increasingly accountable by the Obama Administration for their lack of action.
In the wake of Monday's announcement, in which the White House orchestrated the exit of GM's chairman, President Barack Obama's latest words amount to what The New York Times is calling "a do-or-die ultimatum."
Speaking on Tuesday, Obama outlined his expectations for the two beleaguered corporations - strict standards that must be met if the companies wish to continue to receive additional tax dollars from the government.
One of the first measures included under the plan requires Chrysler and Fiat to join a partnership within the next 30 days if the automaker seeks to appeal for increased financial support.
Obama hopes that the pressure placed on the automotive industry will lead to greater emphasis on restructuring the relationship between creditors, unions and stakeholders so that additional bailout money is not spent in vain.
The Editorial Board agrees with the Obama Administration's decision to, at the very least, appear to hold the automotive industry more accountable for its failure to better utilize the funds allocated to it in the latest bailout package.
We wonder, though, if Chrysler and GM fail to heed Obama's warning, will the president continue to clean up the mess that is the auto industry or finally hold it accountable for its inaction?
For Obama, his administration's increased heat on Detroit should work to soothe public opinion, but the true challenge remains 60 days from now when revised plans are due from the two automotive giants.
