First Up: October 2008

NADA SPOTLIGHT  
The Washington Conference

by Laura Withers

The upcoming presidential election and the down economy set the stage for some high-stakes talks about the future of auto retailing at NADA’s recent 33rd annual Washington Conference. With 2008 being one of the toughest years for the auto industry, dealers had plenty to discuss with lawmakers during Capitol Hill visits. Legislative issues that affect dealers—estate tax reform, total-loss disclosure, and proposed loan guarantees for the Detroit Three to aid in the production of fuel-efficient vehicles—were all on the agenda. Rep. Adam Putnam (R-Fla.) said an “anti-incumbent environment” has created opportunities for grassroots lobbying on energy and the environment, and he urged dealers to stay involved in the political process. Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) said during the DEAC President’s Club dinner that total-loss disclosure legislation deserves lawmakers’ attention in 2009. (A bill reintroduced by Sen. John Ensign [R-Nev.], chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee and another conference speaker, makes that more likely.)

Political analyst and commentator Charlie Cook said the outcome of the close presidential race will largely depend on older white voters. Transportation secretary Mary Peters, speaking at the delegates’ breakfast, expressed concern for the future of transportation infrastructure funding that relies on the gas tax, as Americans drive less and buy more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Welcome to Washington: “You couldn’t be here at a more important time,” NADA president Phil Brady tells dealers (top left); House majority whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) on the importance of federal regulation: “There must be somebody minding the store.”

Energy leader: NADA chairman Annette Sykora recognizes vice chairman John McEleney for cutting his store’s energy use.	Transportation secretary Mary Peters: We can no longer rely on the gas tax to fund roads and bridges.

Political analyst Charlie Cook: Republicans may lose only five Senate seats in November.	Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.): Estate tax reform is on the agenda for 2009.

No time to waste: Rep. Adam Putnam (R-Fla.) tells dealers “if you disengage from the political process, somebody else is going to fill that void.”	Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.): The Passenger Vehicle Total Loss Disclosure Act (S. 3483) is a “good government bill.”

Presidential historian Michael Beschloss: Don’t underestimate the power of hindsight.	Reception for members of Congress: The National Museum of Women in the Arts