"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
In a recent editorial we expressed our opinion that politics and free enterprise don't mix.
It was sparked by Senator Dick Durbin urging customers to stage a run on Bank of America after the bank announced new fees. Well several of you disagreed with us.
Jackie wrote:
Bankers cannot be left to their own devices, we've seen where that leads.
And it always will.
Yes, the banks were responsible for MOST, if not all, of what led to the economic collapse, and I wish everyone would leave BOFA, Wachovia, and the rest of the big banks.
Chuck weighed in:
First off, the banks mixed politics and free market when they asked for the bailouts.
Secondly, the issue at hand is a tit for tat between the banks and regulatory agencies at the expense of consumers and businesses.
He went on to say:
The real danger of Bank of America's actions is that if they are successful with implementing the $5 fee, the practice will spread throughout the industry thus eliminating consumer choice.
Bob wrote:
I don't advocate governmental interference yet there comes a time when the adults MUST step in and discipline the children, i.e., irresponsible and immature decision makers at the corporate level.
But a few of you agreed with us, including Marvin who wrote:
The same Senator whose amendment caused Bank of America's debit card fee is irresponsible in his recent statement saying to cause a run on the bank.
I've never seen Washington solve any problems, only cause them.
We welcome your opinion. Please let us know what you think.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
