Cheney Casts Tie Vote to Pass Spending Bill
VP Dick Cheney cast the tie-breaking vote to pass the stalled budget bill that reduces spending for social programs and hurts low income Americans. The bill slashes money for Medicaid, student loans, welfare and child support, while giving new tax breaks to the rich.
Emergency Campaign for America’s Priorities says Cheney kicked the crutches out from under Tiny Tim. At least, the Senate put in some changes that will require House approval, so the bill will be deferred until 2006. From the press release (received by e-mail):
Fortunately, this fight is not over – Tiny Tim can enjoy Christmas unscathed by the immoral Republican budget. Because Senate Democrats and a few courageous moderate Republicans forced changes to the bill which will require approval in the House – which has left town – ECAP’s effort to derail reconciliation in its entirety soldiers on into the New Year. House Republican leaders have been forced to move heaven and earth to garner the votes necessary to pass their sinful budget agenda in the past – and rest assured – they will not find the task any easier in an election year. In addition, it is inevitable that more objectionable provisions which were inserted into the bill in secret will be identified with the additional time for examination which now exists – providing even more ammunition to derail it when it comes up in the House again next year.â€
In a later press release, the group says the entire spending bill will have to be revoted on, not just the Senate amendments.
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