Into the fire

You try going before Congress, hat in hand, and ask for a $700 billion bailout. Especially when that money is for a disaster you had a hand in making. That was what befell U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr. and Federal Reserve chairman, Ben S. Bernanke as they felt the wrath of the Senate. Senators don't dispute the necessity. They did blast Team Bush for their adhocery, the plan's details (or lack thereof) and who should get the blame. The fact that the wrath is bipartisan in an election year makes it all the more extraordinary. The razzle-dazzle dynamic duo gets to face the House tomorrow. The voters are beginning to see things in ever more dour tones which seems to be helping Barack obama. So while Paulson claims to share the senators' frustration, it may only be a matter of time before he shares the taxpayers' pain.