DEMS AND GOP CAN'T AGREE ON ANYTHING; MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES IN LIMBO

Washington, D.C.-- Two Senate procedural votes on Democratic measures to extend George W. Bush-era tax cuts for people who are not super wealthy failed earlier today, preventing the measures from moving forward.

The votes sought to extend the Bush tax cuts for families making under $250,000 and $1 million, respectively.

Both votes garnered the support of 53 senators, but the Democrats needed 60 votes to end debate.

Despite the realization that neither would get the 60 votes to succeed, many Democrats said before the vote they wanted to get on-the-record in support of extending the lower rates to middle class families and low wage earners. They also want to contrast their ideas with Republican proposals to extend tax cuts for everyone, even those who are very wealthy.

"There are no signs that millionaires are suffering in this economy. It's everybody below that," said Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California. "You have to stand up for what you believe and you have to vote on what you believe."

Both votes were on Democratic amendments and included extensions of other expiring tax programs as well as the extension of benefits for the long-time unemployed.

Majority Leader Harry Reid announced a few minutes ago on the Senate floor that he wants to have the tax cut issue resolved by Friday, December 17 when, he hopes, the Senate adjourns until next year. But New York State Senator Chuck Schumer's willingness to float the possibility of a fight suggests a great deal of unease in the party about the idea of compromising with the Republicans on conservative terms, and extending all the Bush tax cuts temporarily.

Shouldn't we expect more
 leadership from the White House?
(photo by Ove Overmyer)

The White House insists it wants the tax cut impasse bridged before the end of the year, suggesting a large rift between President Obama and a significant number of Democrats on Capitol Hill.

If Democrats were to follow through with that strategy, it would turn the tax cut debate on its head. 

This is what we can expect:  In a ferocious spin battle, Republicans would accuse Democrats of allowing the largest tax increase in U.S. history, while Democrats would blame the hikes on the GOP for holding the extensions hostage until the wealthiest Americans are given additional tax relief.  Very soon we will hear some of the nastiest rhetoric and soundbites ever before from both parties-- just in time for the holidays!  You know, right around the time we are supposed to show good will towards men and peace on earth and all that jazz.