Democratic members of Maine's congressional delegation say a proposal – still undergoing some tweaks – to bail out the nation's largest automakers looks promising, but its Republican members continued to reserve judgement on Monday.

"I still want to be driving a Ford in 10 years," said Chellie Pingree, who will replace U.S. Rep. Tom Allen, D-Maine, next month as Maine's 1st District representative. Pingree said she drives a Ford Ranger pickup with 96,000 miles on it.

"I think we are getting closer to what needs to be done," she said.

The proposal, being negotiated Monday night between Democratic leaders and the White House, would provide roughly $15 billion in emergency loans, but those loans could be recalled by a presidentially appointed "car czar" if automakers are not taking enough steps to reinvent themselves.

"Today's announcement is a step in the right direction," U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, D-Maine, said in a prepared statement, referring to the fact that Congress sent the White House a bill.

Michaud said he appreciated the inclusion of more accountability in the bailout plan, but reiterated his position that Congress cannot commit billions of taxpayer dollars to the automakers without knowing that they are viable and will be able to repay taxpayers.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said she remains concerned about the impact an industry collapse might have on Maine's automobile dealers and their employees, but said she will "need more information before Congress considers putting taxpayer dollars at risk."

Maine's other U.S. senator, Republican Olympia Snowe, said she will examine the final, negotiated proposal to ensure that it includes strict oversight, deadlines and the enforcement necessary to hold the auto companies accountable for achieving long-term viability and competitiveness.

"This can't just be a Band-Aid approach with an infinite infusion of funds," Snowe said.

Staff Writer Dennis Hoey can be contacted at 791-6365 or at:

dhoey@pressherald.com