David Goldman lays it all out:
Drastic steps are required to restore credibility and confidence.
1) Ben Bernanke should withdraw from consideration for a second term as Fed Chairman. President Obama should appoint former Fed Chairman Paul Volcker in his place. If Volcker, who is 82 years old, feels unable to accept the nomination for a full term, he should serve as Interim Chairman and head a search committee including bipartisan Congressional representation to find a permanent successor. If Bernanke insists on pursuing a second term, the Senate should vote him out.
2) Treasury Secretary Geithner should resign. Whether or not he engaged in wrongdoing, his capacity to execute his office is damaged beyond repair.
I took issue with Paul Volcker’s proposal to ban bank proprietary trading, but that is a minor issue. Volcker’s distinguished career and unimpeachable integrity make him the man of the hour. I’ll take Volcker’s worst moments over Bernanke’s best.
This is not a partisan issue. The alleged malfeasance occurred under the previous administration, and Volcker became Fed Chairman under the Carter Administration. America can’t afford to heap onto the present economic crisis yet another crisis – of integrity.