Toyota v Government - Conflict of Interest?

Seriously think about this for a minute. The problems with Toyota accelerators have been happening since roughly 2000. I, in no way, will come to the defense of Toyota or the company's actions to correct the problems. I will however, point out just a couple of issues that cause me to be concerned and ask you to keep your eyes open.

The NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) has recently stepped up its public campaign against Toyota. At this point in time this may just be my paranoia however I ask that you just think about it and ask yourself, "What do you think?" I find it suspicious that Toyota has been dealing with these issues now for roughly ten years but the NHTSA just now decided to step up and take real action.

In typical political expedience the Congress is looking to do a full hearing and investigation. Congress will now haul the Toyota executives into the capital and demonize them for all the world to see. By doing so we voters can get a view of how our political leaders are taking action to ensure our safety. This will be nothing more than another grandstanding show by our leaders (Republicans and Democrats alike).

Is the fact that we have so much (as taxpayers) invested into GM and Chrysler a conflict of interest? Why is just now that the government has decided to take political action against Toyota with so much publicity and fanfare?

President Obama and Congress bailed out GM and against popular public opinion went in and dictated to GM who will lead the company, how much they'll be paid, and even what cars that GM will produce. Now that they have such a political stake in GM, are they truly unbiased with regard to dealing with Toyota?

Lastly, keep in mind that this will negatively affect future Toyota sales. The factories that are being affected most are those right here inside the United States. When Toyota has to cut costs because of the lawsuits and the negatively impacted sales, they'll certainly make those cuts within the U.S. first.

Again, this may just be my paranoia but just keep an eye on this and watch how if unfolds. While doing so, watch for those politicians who are grandstanding the loudest. Look seriously at their motives and do your best to read through the political double-speak.