December 9, 2010

This morning the House Democratic Caucus voted unanimously not to bring the tax cut proposal negotiated by President Obama and Republican leadership to the floor for a vote unless changes are made. I am very proud that my Caucus is standing up to at least try and get a better deal for the American people. I don't know where we will end up but I can tell you that the disappointment and frustration over the negotiated deal is wide and it is deep.

I strongly support extending the tax cuts for everyone below $250,000 and I believe we must extend unemployment benefits for those still struggling to find work. As I've reported to you in the past, I am willing to negotiate on the details but negotiation and compromise mean that both sides have to give a little to get a little. That is not what happened here. Republicans basically got everything they wanted in this bill and Democrats simply did not get enough in return. What has been even more frustrating for many of us is that the "compromise" also includes a number of provisions favored by Republicans that weren't even on the table, such as estate tax exemptions, another provision that favors the wealthy. As you know, I often vote on bills that do not represent 100% of what I want and I am not looking for perfection here either, but the benefits for average Americans in this deal do not outweigh its many costs. Today's Caucus vote makes it clear that the House will not simply accept this deal without a fight. As always, I will keep you posted as this debate over tax cuts continues.

It remains my sincere hope that Democrats, Republicans and the President can work together to craft a tax cuts package that recognizes two important realities: middle class tax cuts and extended unemployment benefits are still necessary because our economy continues to struggle; and we cannot add to our already high deficit by adding provisions that only benefit the wealthy.

Thanks to those of you who have shared your opinion on this debate. I've received lots of thoughtful commentary, and always appreciate hearing from you.

Best,