I agree with you. When it comes to America, all they care about is the "Almighty Dollar." How can we outsource work to other countries with sweat shops? How can we legally bring people to live in the US to work for less? The reason so many people in America are out of work, is because our government thinks this way.
I agree that regional flying, primarily Turbo-Prop RPT ops, are essential for the airline business as well. The smaller aircraft with their excellent short-field performance, and fuel economy, allow airlines to branch out into smaller communities. Which in my opinion, is crucial for business.