I wholeheartedly agree that the banks that have gotten rich off of these predatory lending practices in the sub prime market need to face the music. I’m not advocating a bail out for anyone, individuals or corps.
Certainly both republicans and democrats alike want to grease the palms of the financial industry that is their bread and butter. However, I think that you are right regarding their motives. 1) They get to look like a savior for the little guy while 2) helping out their banking friends.
At least most republican politicians wouldn’t try and hide their true motives 😉