On the recordDecember 16, 2010
Mr. Chairman, today we debate legislation to prevent taxes from increasing on all taxpayers as our economy struggles to recover. We know without any doubt that virtually all Americans will be forced to send more of their hard-earned dollars to Washington on January 1, 2011, if we fail to act. Although this legislation is not perfect in my estimation, the package does provide a measure of certainty and predictability that will allow broader debate in the coming Congress without immediately damaging our fragile economy. This package will prevent devastating tax increases from falling on the backs of hardworking Americans, small businesses, and job-creating investments. This imperfect legislation represents the best agreement that can be reached by Republicans and Democrats determined to avoid the shock to our economy that would come from increasing taxes on the American people and many of our job creators. A vote against this agreement, which would prevent the largest tax increase in history, is really a vote for a $3.8 trillion job-killing tax increase. Regardless of what side of the aisle the opposition comes from, they're willing to accept the proposition that taxes will increase for all Americans. They may hope to gain political points, but I am not willing to let perfect stand in the way of good when it comes to matters that negatively impact the paychecks of Kentuckians. Earlier this week, this package earned the bipartisan support of more than 80 Senators.…





