The federal government's passing on a project can open the door for private enterprise to step in. In this Virginia case, hopes for a 23 mile Metrorail extension are fading. Who might provide funding for the project? The Carlyle Group, the infamously connected private equity underwriter (PEU).
Bush's Transportation Department has a clearly stated bias toward private-public partnerships. Secretary Mary Peters and Undersecretary D.J. Gribben believe strongly in such projects. D.J.'s prior employer, Macquarie is a partner in several U.S. toll roads.
The Washington Post noted federal denial to be a strong reason for regional business and political leaders to consider private funding. That begs the question. Could Bush's team not fund a project so their friends could get the work? He's been known to send government work to his friends by action. Does he do likewise via inaction?
Bush's Transportation Department has a clearly stated bias toward private-public partnerships. Secretary Mary Peters and Undersecretary D.J. Gribben believe strongly in such projects. D.J.'s prior employer, Macquarie is a partner in several U.S. toll roads.
The Washington Post noted federal denial to be a strong reason for regional business and political leaders to consider private funding. That begs the question. Could Bush's team not fund a project so their friends could get the work? He's been known to send government work to his friends by action. Does he do likewise via inaction?
