Can't Blame These Democrats for Auto Woes

When you have Democrats driving around in opulent automobiles, you could argue they're doing their best to keep the auto industry afloat. Of course we're paying for it, however.

The U.S. auto industry may have been sliding down the tubes the last few years, but folks like Rep. Charles Rangel can't be blamed for it.

Federal records show the dean of New York's congressional delegation had been shelling out $777 a month from his office account to cruise around in a leased GM Cadillac DeVille, although aides say he recently ditched the ride.

As President Obama delivered some tough love to Detroit Monday, members of Congress have been plowing taxpayer bucks into big leases - and not all on U.S. cars.

Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Queens) went in high style in a Lexus, made by Japanese automaker Toyota, with a monthly lease of $998, according to House records the Daily News obtained for the fourth quarter of 2008 - the most recent available.

And Ulster County Democrat Maurice Hinchey tooled around in a snazzy 2007 BMW 530i that cost taxpayers $499 a month.

At the opposite end of the spectrum was Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-Brooklyn, Queens), who doled out $147 a month for a Chevy Impala.

Only $147 a month? Where can I get that deal?