Forum Post: Wall Street Manifesto - Part 2

(Hypothetical speech by a prominent Wall Street banker to the 99%)

The past few years have been difficult for all of us. It is unfortunate that some misguided individuals have sought to fix the blame on us for all the troubles that currently beset our economy. Our intentions have always been honorable. Is it a crime for us to wet our beaks a little when we provide such a valuable service? Are we not entitled to our modest salaries and bonuses? Should not the taxpayers foot the bill when circumstances conspire against us through no fault of our own? Your elected representatives thought we should receive federal assistance and guarantees to get through a rough patch of road. We had the foresight to ensure that our emissaries were appointed to key posts in the government. Paulson, Bernanke, Geithner and Summers are excellent examples of our wisdom in this regard. We convinced the current president as we have convinced every president before him that it is best to leave the financial affairs of our country to professionals like ourselves. They, in turn, saw fit to appoint our recommended candidates to key positions such as Chairman of the Federal Reserve and Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. A banker is nothing if not prudent in such matters. We leave nothing to chance. We are sure you would agree that our country has been well served under the auspices of our handpicked stewards.