The Big Question for Tuesday, Nov. 18: Is bailing out Detroit good policy or bad policy? (See all responses here.)

Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen’s (R-Fla.) response: As the country continues to face an uncertain economic future, government must act with the same fiscal-responsibility currently required of millions of small-businesses and middle-class families across the country. In my home district of South Florida, unemployment is on the rise, foreclosures are rampant, and our thriving tourist economy is quickly spiraling downward. We need to address the root causes of our economic situation — most notably volatility in the housing market and access to credit—before we should consider shouldering any additional financial commitments.

In September, Congress approved a $25 billion loan program to assist carmakers in meeting newly imposed fuel-economy standards; that $25 billion should now be put to use. I have a great appreciation for the hard-working men and women of our country’s auto-industry, and hope that we can work with those involved to help carmakers better equip to meet the needs of the 21st century consumer.