The economy (the free market concept) IS strong, but at times GREED at all levels of the business spectrum (especially at the consumer level) gives the economy a vigorous workout.

All of us must share the blame for market ups-and-downs. Look at the label of most of what you buy, and if it has a 'Made in China/Pakistan/india/elsewhere" label, that's because we don't want to spend the extra money out-of-pocket for American-made goods (subject to stringent environmental laws, high labor costs due to required benefits and other factors, and considerable safety and other regulations). Thus, American-made goods can't compete in the world market and our exports are lower than our inputs (screwing up the balance of payments). Energy is no different.

You don't "fix" the economy by adding more regulations on businesses. You "fix" the economy by insuring the money stays home by buying American. That results in more jobs here, more money spent here, resulting in even more jobs here and more money spent here.

Until we wean ourselves from buying imports (because it's "less expensive"), adding more regulations on domestic business only makes things worse.

So, do we bite the bullet and Buy American, or do we expect our elected leaders (NONE of whom can change our personal spending habits) to "kiss the boo-boo and make it better" ? ? ?