Why did many Americans criticize the Troubled Asset Relief Program?

Many Americans criticized the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) because they viewed it as a bailout for large banks and financial institutions that had contributed to the financial crisis, often at the expense of ordinary taxpayers. Critics argued that it prioritized Wall Street over Main Street, neglecting the needs of struggling homeowners and small businesses. Additionally, there was widespread frustration over the lack of accountability and transparency in how the funds were used, leading to concerns about ethical implications and the potential for future reckless behavior in the financial sector.