There is a risk. But there are other alternatives to the Paulson plan which would do just as much (or more) to deter a possible collapse, while at the same time not carrying anything like the amount of corruption baggage.
Please illustrate the other options that can be mustered in time to prevent the financial panic we saw begin last Thursday?
I too am very suspicious and fearful of the potential for corruption. That is why I made the post I made reaming the plan for giving Paulson absolute power with no Congressional or Judicial review or oversight. That is intolerable. I don’t want Emperor Hank I. I am for the bailout but not for the Dictatorial power Emperor Hank I asked for in his initial request.
That said, what alternatives can be instituted next week to prevent market panic and remove the fear among the lending institutions that has stymied liquidity?