BP could act like a Florida physician during a malpractice claim. Many physicians will “go bare”, that is practice without malpractice insurance. If sued, the physician will typically have assets in the form of their home (which cannot be taken by the plaintiff) and other offshore or out of state assets that are safe from civil action. There have also been cases where physicians have declared bankruptcy shortly after being served notice of a lawsuit.
Likewise, zero’s hostile posturing towards BP will make it more likely that BP will attempt to shift assets to the UK or wherever they can shelter their money from a socialist takeover by zero.(yes, they will lawyer up). Then, BP’s US division will be sufficiently drained of cash and unstable that they will declare bankruptcy. zero’s hostile remarks have caused BP’s stock to tank even further than if he had kept his mouth shut. Small consolation for the victims of this disaster.
“Then, BP’s US division will be sufficiently drained of cash and unstable that they will declare bankruptcy. zero’s hostile remarks have caused BP’s stock to tank even further than if he had kept his mouth shut. Small consolation for the victims of this disaster.”
I see a similar scenario. Our dear leader may take direct action (executive order) or prod Congress to take action. Even if no government action is taken, the trial lawyers and states are set to swoop in. BP will need to take defensive actions to stop the assault. It may turn out very badly because the greed of Congress and trial lawyers will force action by BP, possibly yielding much less dollars than a cooperative approach. If BP was a US company, I see a tobacco type settlement in which BP would be saddled for 50 ti 100 years with payments. Of course, these costs will be passed onto customers but the settlement would make the rats feel very good.