Posted On: March 25, 2005, 1:43 pm CST

Posted By: RolfNeu

Now it's AIG in the 'barrel'. Isn't it interessting to see how some of the most revered companies on Wall Street including their often publicized executives have been exposed (mostly through the efforts of Eliot Spitzer) have now been thoroughly tarnished?

Look at the millions and billions some of these companies have 'settled' for to avoid further scrutiny and litigation. The fact is those settlements pale against the billions by which consumers have been 'ripped-off' by these same companies. Many innocent investors who bought into theses companies have taken a beating.

The story that still isn't being explored and told is the influence these same companies have exerted on the political front. These same companies and their top executives have poured millions upon millions to curry favor with elected and appointed officials for the purpose of influencing the laws that regulate their businesses. Look at the recent new Bankruptcy bill that was heavily promoted and funded by the banks and credit card companies.

Herbert Hoover said: "You know, the only trouble with capitalism is capitalists. they're too damn greedy." Today Mr. Hoover would probably add "and they're dishonest".