GOP cronyism, Japan style

One of the most troubling aspects of the relationship between government and big business in Japan is the tradition of ama-kudari. The tongue-in-cheek term means descent from heaven, and it's a common practice. Government officials retire, then accept cushy jobs with large corporations. They get the jobs by doing favors for the companies while in government, then use their government connections while with the company to get even more favorable treatment. It's a vicious circle, and one which ensures that real economic reform won't happen. That's one reason that the Japanese economy has been so sluggish since the 'bubble' burst in the early 90s.

It's rapidly becoming the norm in this country as well, or at least the Republican party. Bush has consistently hired corporate insiders to "regulate" their own industry through government appointments. When they leave, they return to even more lucrative industry posts. Witness the notorious EPA head who altered scientific reports on global warming to make them more business-friendly. When he stepped down after being caught in the act, he immediately went to work for Exxon!

This is definitely the "MBA presidency." It's by corporations, of corporations, and for corporations.

Thomas Noe raised hundreds of thousands for Bush/Cheney, and was rewarded with tens of millions worth of investments in his company by the Republican Ohio state government. He is now under investigation for losing $30 million.

A senior aide to Republican senator George Allen has just accepted a lobbying position with the National Association of Manufacturers. He will use his position to protect corporations from asbestos-related lawsuits, among other things.

The result is that goverment will follow an increasingly corporatist model, and although the economy is weakening, corporations will continue to be interested in only one thing-- continued profitability in their market.

Thanks to OD1 for the links.